How can we work for inclusive education?

In this video (2:49), educational developers Karin Båge and Jennifer Valcke at the Unit for Teaching and Learning (TL/UoL) talk about what is meant by inclusive education, the need as a teacher to be explicit in including everyone in the classroom. According to the United Nations' Agenda 2030 and the sustainable development goals (SDGs), quality education is defined as inclusive and equitable. What does this mean for teaching and learning in higher education?

In this film Jennifer Valcke refers a paper by Professor Wendy Green, from the University of Queensland: ‘Promising practices’ for inclusive teaching and learning, which gives advice on how to create a safe space.

Fostering safe and inclusive education

The following explanation comes from the University of Groningen's online course, Becoming a Student Assistant: Teaching and Mentoring

"The concept of inclusive learning environments is currently gaining (renewed) attention due to the trend of internationalisation of higher education. Safe and inclusive learning environments are, however, important for all students since constructive environments are beneficial to the learning process."

We recommend that you watch the film where Dana, a student assistant for first and second year students, talks about the importance of creating a truly safe and inclusive classroom climate for increasingly diverse student population at higher education institutions. Dana emphases the importance of accessible course content and what that actually means.