This topic is one I am very passionate about, and one that is becoming more relevant in my life right now with a daughter who will begin kindergarten next year. Ultimately, I’ve found my philosophy to be pretty simple – every person is on their own individual journey with countless experiences that inform who they currently are. We can and should want to learn about others’ experiences, traditions, cultures, family structures, struggles, victories, aspirations, motivations, and more for many reasons but if nothing else, to grow into and become the best versions of ourselves possible. My core philosophy in general pertains specifically to appreciation of diversity – we are students of life with lessons to learn and lessons to share and teach, with one end goal being to apply those lessons in order to become the best (most generous, loving, kind, understanding, etc.) that we can be. I believe all of this is enhanced the more we diversify our experience and experience people and environments different from our own. This doesn’t change when shifting to an academic context.

 

Every student in my classes will be heard and treated equitably. I will reserve judgment and consider all circumstances of my students no matter what their background. I strive to be sensitive to subjects which affect people in different ways, and always try to get the students thinking about systems in place and the impact they may or may not see that those systems have. This has been especially true in my Psychobiology of Addiction course. There is a great deal of prejudice and stigma surrounding substance use, addiction and the people it tends to affect most. This course in particular is a chance to dismantle all of that using DEI concepts and approaches. I am very focused on using inclusive language that is respectful toward different cultural, economic, psychological and familial backgrounds. My classroom is a safe space for my students and I to discuss tough topics and increase our awareness, empathy and understanding of others and the situations they experience. I make this known on day one. We will listen to all perspectives respectfully, even when they differ from our own, and keep an open mind. Occasionally, I have encountered a student who very clearly thinks within a problematic framework (i.e. seeing addiction as a moral failing) and in this circumstance, we are sensitive and focus on redirection through facts, research and application. If we assume harmful intent by ideas and commentary, we can miss an opportunity to foster learning and growth through discussion.

 

Additionally, it is important to me that I ensure the materials I am using to teach (e.g. reading materials, external websites, etc.) are inclusive and accessible for everyone. Every student should have access to coursework and materials in a way that considers sensory, learning, technological, and other differences.

 

The following is my message to all students I work with:

In our class, we work to foster a collaborative and safe environment for students to discuss, explore and analyze the material. With this in mind, I ask that everyone hold themselves to the standard of respectful communication, active listening and thoughtful consideration of others from a multitude of backgrounds and lived experience. Our classroom is a safe space for ALL students who adhere to these standards without exception. Hate speech, prejudice or anything of this nature will not be tolerated and students who display inappropriate behavior or speech that goes against these community standards will be asked to remove themselves from the learning environment. We can all learn something from one another, and the hope is that you will look forward to our class meeting and learning something new about something or someone else every week. Finally, I want you to succeed. This can be made very difficult if you are facing extreme stress such as houselessness, food insecurity or other significant stressors. I am a judgment-free resource for you. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you are struggling and in need of guidance or help. If I am unable to help you directly, I can guide you to the right place to get the assistance you need. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.