Caring matters! Current research shows how much students benefit from the social and academic support that comes from caring.  A caring classroom environment improves motivation, positive outlook, and overall learning outcomes.

The first session will share concrete strategies for demonstrating care and building a culture of trust and belonging, which will encourage students to be more invested in learning. 

The second session will focus on how we put theory into practice by promoting student scholarship through a community of care with the use of group activities, peer interactions, and community-building practices.

We hope this series will help you explore ways to create a supportive learning environment in which all students can thrive. 

Defining a Culture of Care: Building Trust, Belonging, and Motivation

Caring for and about students is an important step to create a warm and supportive learning environment. When students believe they are cared for, they feel safe and have the confidence to more deeply engage with the course and build stronger interpersonal relationships. Research shows that students who feel connected to their instructors and classmates experience better outcomes. This session will share concrete strategies for demonstrating care and building a culture of trust and belonging, one that encourages students to be more invested in learning. 

For additional resources on building a culture of care, please refer to our resources document. 

Culture of Care in Practice: Caring Course Activities

Building a sense of community and belonging in the classroom encourages risk-taking and curiosity, fosters creativity, and invites students to share freely and equitably. It is also a practice rooted in sound pedagogical theory. But how do we put theory into practice? 

In this session, we will consider strategies for implementing a pedagogy of care through course materials, assignments, and activities. Topics will include:

• Syllabus language that reflects care: office hours, grading policies, late work policy, attendance

• Improved peer review, group assignments, and community-building activities

• Promoting student scholarship through a community of care

   

If you would like to speak to an instructional consultant, you can request a consultation here. To speak with any other Technology Services group, you can reach them by emailing LSATechnologyServices@umich.edu.