Inclusive learning environments are ones in which students feel that their contributions and perspectives are equally valued and respected. The following pages offer ideas and strategies on how to create and sustain inclusive classrooms, both in person and in hybrid and online settings.

Additionally, Teaching & Learning in the Diverse Classroom is an online course open to any Cornell instructor, from any discipline and with any level of diversity expertise. Learn more about this course and the next course offering.

Building Community and Belonging

Creating a community with a shared identity allows members to develop their place in the group, clearly understand their role, and see how they fit into the larger class.

Classroom Climate

Influence the classroom climate to enhance student learning.

How to respond to incidents that impact the climate in teaching & learning.

Connecting With Your Students

Build trust and rapport by connecting with your students to improve the classroom learning experience.

Establishing Ground Rules & Setting Expectations

Establish ground rules to ensure that all students understand and practice respectful and productive classroom communication.

Global Learning

Incorporate meaningful global learning experiences for your students.

Hybrid and Online Learning

Hybrid and online learning settings can make creating a sense of belonging uniquely challenging. Students may need support as they join you in hybrid or learning environments.

Icebreakers

Effectively use icebreakers in your class to create a sense of community.

Inclusive Teaching Strategies

Use inclusive teaching strategies to ensure that students with a wide range of backgrounds, characteristics, and expectations have productive learning experiences in your class.

Universal Design for Learning

Utilize universal design for learning to insure that your teaching approach meets the needs and abilities of all learners to eliminate unnecessary hurdles in the learning process.