Teaching for Justice and Inclusivity In Challenging Times from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introductory Module

In this module, you will become familiar with the overall structure of the course, as well as the requirements for pursuing the course certificate. In particular, the final assignment required for those wishing to pursue the certificate will be outlined as well as the overall organization of the course.

Introduction to Inclusive Teaching

In this module, you will become familiar with common vocabulary and ideas associated with culturally sustaining teaching practices. In addition, you will consider subconscious biases that we each bring into our own classroom spaces as educators. In this module, you will be invited to think reflectively about how to honor students and families’ backgrounds, to use cultural tools as a lens and to effectively address unconscious bias in a way that allows you to meet the needs of your students and educational environment.

Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy

Educators and students alike are in a stressful teaching and learning climate. However, by practicing a culturally sustaining pedagogy that recognizes and honors student cultures, identities, and backgrounds, we can make the classroom environment warm and welcoming for all students. In this module, we define culturally sustaining pedagogies, we explore strategies and tools conducive to culturally sustaining approaches, and we consider how we might leverage such tools in our own teaching contexts.

Teachers' Rights and Responsibilities

This module examines the history of rights and responsibilities for teachers at the state and federal level. Through examination, trends will be explored to show how education has been a key political agenda whenever lawmakers feel a threat to their agenda. Specifically, this module will showcase historical trends of anti-inclusive educational policies such as anti-bilingual and anti-ethnic studies from the 1990s - early 2000s. Then, this module will highlight the current trends of anti-CRT, anti-gay legislation, anti-SEL, and Book Bans nation wide. This module will conclude with modern activism from teachers and students as examples of how these current oppressive educational trends can be fought against and pushed back on while being mindful of teacher rights and responsibilities.

Engaging Family and Community

In this module, we will explore the ways that teachers might forge relationships with family and community in order to advocate for and with students and their families as well as continue to offer Understand the value of students’ families and the role of communities in shaping school culture and landscapes.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores identity, race, and gender in the classroom, topics that are increasingly contested

Provides practical tips for teachers, as well as guidance for collaboration and solidarity during contentious times

Taught by Emily Gleason and Paula Battistelli, PhD, experts in inclusive teaching and culturally sustaining pedagogies

Examines the history of rights and responsibilities for teachers at the state and federal level, showcasing historical trends of anti-inclusive educational policies

Culturally sustaining pedagogical approaches recognize and honor student cultures, identities, and backgrounds, creating a warm and welcoming classroom environment for all

Highlights current trends of anti-CRT, anti-gay legislation, anti-SEL, and Book Bans nationwide and provides examples of teacher and student activism against these trends

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Teaching for Justice and Inclusivity In Challenging Times with these activities:

Seek Mentorship from Experienced Educators

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Connect with teachers who can provide support, guidance, and share their expertise in inclusive and culturally relevant teaching.

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Identify experienced teachers in your field or school district who are known for their inclusive practices.
Reach out to potential mentors and request their guidance.
Regularly meet with your mentor to discuss challenges, share ideas, and receive feedback.

Review Terminology

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Review the key terms used in the course to ensure a common understanding.

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Review the definitions of key terms using online dictionaries or glossaries.
Create a mind map or digital card system to summarize the key terms and their definitions.

Organize Course Materials

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Develop a system for organizing and reviewing course materials, enhancing accessibility and retention.

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Create folders or digital notebooks for different course modules and topics.
Categorize and label materials (e.g., readings, lecture notes, discussion notes).
Review and summarize materials regularly to reinforce learning and identify areas for further study.

Five other activities

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Read and Review: White Fragility

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Engage with a seminal work on race and racism, deepening your understanding of the complexities in the classroom.

View Seeing Whiteness: The Essential Essays of Robin... on Amazon

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Read the book and take notes on key concepts and arguments.
Reflect on your own experiences and biases in relation to the content of the book.
Participate in online discussions or book clubs to share insights and engage with others.

Explore Strategies for Addressing Bias

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Engage with resources that provide practical strategies for reducing bias in the classroom.

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Identify online tutorials or professional development webinars on addressing bias in teaching.
Participate in a guided tutorial or webinar, taking notes on strategies and techniques presented.
Reflect on how to apply the strategies learned to your own teaching context.

Volunteer in a Community Setting

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Engage with community organizations or schools to gain practical experience in working with diverse populations and addressing social justice issues.

Browse courses on Community Engagement

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Identify community organizations or schools that are aligned with your interests and values.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Participate in volunteer activities, such as tutoring, mentoring, or facilitating workshops.
Reflect on your experiences and how they inform your understanding of diversity and inclusion.

Engage in Case Study Discussion

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Collaborate with peers to analyze real-world scenarios and develop strategies for fostering inclusive learning environments.

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Review case studies provided in the course or identify relevant cases from your own teaching experience.
Join or form a peer discussion group to share perspectives and insights on the case studies.
Develop a plan of action for implementing effective strategies in your own teaching practice.

Design a Classroom Lesson Plan

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Apply the principles of inclusive teaching by creating a lesson plan that addresses the diverse needs of students.

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Identify the learning objectives and goals for the lesson.
Incorporate culturally relevant materials and perspectives that connect with students' backgrounds and experiences.
Develop differentiated activities and assessments to cater to diverse learning styles and needs.
Consider strategies for building a positive and supportive classroom environment.
Reflect on the effectiveness of the lesson plan and make adjustments as needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Teaching for Justice and Inclusivity In Challenging Times will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Diversity and Inclusion Training Specialist

Diversity and Inclusion Training Specialists design and deliver training programs on diversity, equity, and inclusion. They may also work with organizations to develop and implement diversity and inclusion initiatives. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for designing and delivering effective diversity and inclusion training. It also provides practical tips for collaboration and solidarity during contentious times, which can be helpful for working with organizations to implement diversity and inclusion initiatives.

See salaries and explore the career path for Diversity and Inclusion Training Specialist

School Counselor

School Counselors work with students to help them overcome academic, social, and emotional challenges. They may also work with parents and teachers to create a supportive learning environment for all students. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for creating a supportive learning environment for all students. It also provides practical tips for supporting all students in classes and building trust with parents and families.

See salaries and explore the career path for School Counselor

Equity and Inclusion Officer

Equity and Inclusion Officers help their organizations address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion. They may work with human resources to develop and implement policies and programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. In this role, an understanding of the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies is essential. This course provides a foundation for understanding these concepts and their application in a variety of settings, skills that can be directly applied to the work of an Equity and Inclusion Officer.

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Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. They may write reports, make recommendations, and advocate for policy changes. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for developing policies that promote equity and inclusion. It also provides practical tips for collaboration and solidarity during contentious times, which can be helpful for advocating for policy changes.

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Teacher

Teachers work with students to help them learn and grow. They may teach a variety of subjects, from math and science to history and English. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students. It also provides practical tips for supporting all students in classes and building trust with parents and families.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Community Organizer

Community Organizers work with communities to identify and address issues that are important to them. They may organize events, rallies, and other activities to raise awareness and advocate for change. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for building strong and inclusive communities. It also provides practical tips for collaboration and solidarity during contentious times, which can be helpful for working with communities to address difficult issues.

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Nonprofit Manager

Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. They may be responsible for a variety of tasks, including fundraising, program development, and financial management. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and for developing programs that meet the needs of diverse communities.

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Librarian

Librarians help people find and access information. They may work in a variety of settings, including public libraries, school libraries, and academic libraries. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all library users.

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Museum Educator

Museum Educators develop and deliver educational programs for museum visitors. They may work with a variety of audiences, from school children to adults. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for creating engaging and inclusive museum experiences for all visitors.

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Human Resources Manager

Human Resources Managers oversee the human resources function for their organizations. They may be responsible for a variety of tasks, including recruiting, hiring, training, and developing employees. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. It also provides practical tips for collaboration and solidarity during contentious times, which can be helpful for working with employees to address issues of diversity and inclusion.

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Consultant

Consultants provide advice and expertise to organizations on a variety of topics. They may work independently or for a consulting firm. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for providing effective consulting services to organizations that are committed to diversity and inclusion.

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Social Worker

Social Workers work with individuals, families, and communities to address a variety of social problems. They may provide counseling, support, and resources to help people overcome challenges and improve their lives. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies, which are essential for working with diverse populations. It also provides practical tips for supporting all students in classes and building trust with parents and families.

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Politician

Politicians run for elected office and serve in government. They may work at the local, state, or federal level. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies. This understanding can help politicians to develop and implement policies that promote equity and inclusion.

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Journalist

Journalists research and write news stories for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They may also work for television or radio stations. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies. This understanding can help journalists to write more accurate and inclusive stories that reflect the experiences of diverse communities.

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Lawyer

Lawyers provide legal advice and representation to individuals and organizations. They may work in a variety of settings, including private law firms, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. This course provides a foundation for understanding the concepts of inclusive teaching practices and culturally sustaining pedagogies. This understanding can help lawyers to provide more effective legal services to diverse clients and to advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusion.

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