Kathleen F. Gabriel wrote a book we read as part of an OFD Reading Circle several years ago: Teaching Unprepared Students. Gabriel presented at the 2021 Lilly Conference Online on “Embracing Student Diversity in the Midst of Our Society’s Strife.” Gabriel began by speaking about the hate crimes and marginalization that our society has endured, emphasizing that our institutions are not immune. Micro aggressions and “modern racism” was described with examples and definitions. Gabriel posed a challenge: eliminating social pollution and cleaning our social environment. The challenges are not new: Gabriel recommended watching a 1961 video available on YouTube entitled “Everyone’s Prejudice” that is a good (19-minute) way to start conversations. Another recommendation was the book Biased that is actually on my audiobook “Want to Read” list! Another video recommendation was a TED talk called “The Danger of a Single Story,”and Gabriel played a clip. This emphasized how we can be narrow-minded and have a single story. Increasing our own cultural competence was emphasized through this video and stories shared by the audience. Gabriel urged us to expand our own ethnic and cultural knowledge by reading and learning different histories. Several excellent books and resources were recommended and the incorporation of culturally relevant material into the courses we teach. Gabriel stressed that classroom climate is critical: fostering a sense of belonging and increasing contact opportunities are important components for the success of all. Learn and pronounce names correctly and have students learn the names of their peers. Gabriel uses name cards with names, colors, numbers, and times to mix students up using different groupings. I love how Gabriel stressed creating sharing situations and promoting “academic discourse for a community of learners.” Gabriel uses activities and quotes to show that there is struggle: validation of student journeys to support all with a class climate of growth. I was happy to hear that in response to a question about late or sloppy last-minute work, Gabriel suggested chunking and having milestones and providing deadlines with some grace. Gabriel provides opportunities for revision too. “Build in support systems” by giving a due date and then when it gets closer provide another day or two. Gabriel also allows revisions with the agreement that learners will submit the original and revised. The conversation in this session was kept on going! Gabriel answered several questions by providing actionable tips. Several suggestions are things we do and could improve to truly build in support and opportunities for interaction, revision, and learning from our mistakes.
