Inclusive Teaching Methods
Skip to guidelines for specific teaching methods
Students enter higher education from diverse backgrounds bringing with them diverse learning preferences and life experiences. . Because inclusive teaching is designed to be accessible to all the students in a diverse student body it is of benefit to all students, both traditional and non-traditional.
When designing teaching and learning strategies we need to consider the diversity of the student population. Diversity can take many forms. There is diversity of:- the student population (cultural, age, gender, disability etc.)
- learning preferences
This section will offer guidance on how to ensure that inclusive practices are incorporated into your teaching.
| Clear and flexible approaches to teaching methodology and materials are necessary to meet the needs of a diverse student body. |
General Guidelines for Inclusive Teaching:
Flexibility:
- Use a range of teaching methods, Flexible Teaching Methods - Who Benefits?
- Use a range of teaching materials.
Clarity:
Some general strategies to enhance clarity are:
- Timely distribution of annotated reading lists,
- Timely notice of assessment methods and deadlines,
- Lecture handouts distributed in advance of lectures,
- Ensure all teaching materials follow Accessible Information Guidelines,
- Avoid jargon in materials,
- Ensure all information is accurate and up to date.
Alignment:
Ensure there is alignment between learning outcomes and teaching methods
- If learning outcomes are skills based, ensure teaching is primarily practical rather than theoretical,
- Where is there a vocational element to a programme seek to link theory and practice through practicals, role playing, inviting practitioners to be guest lecturers etc.
Links to more specific guidelines for inclusion within the following teaching scenarios:
- Class Room Teaching
- Group work
- Problem Based Learning
- Self-directed teaching and learning
- E-Learning
Preparing lectures, workshops etc - A checklist of good practice (Word, 400kb)