Through individual reflection and collective discussion, participants will connect principles of belonging to their designing their courses, assignments, and instructional activities. This workshop introduces Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a tool to foster welcoming teaching and learning environments that focus on students sense of belonging or belongingness. Participants will also consider how critical, intentional design choices can actively invite all students into the learning process and support their ongoing engagement.

This workshop may be counted toward the DEI concentration of the Achievement in Pedagogy Badge offered through the Graduate Student Teaching Initiative. For more information, visit the Achievement in Pedagogy Badge website or contact teaching@pitt.edu.

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Identify attitudes and issues related to students' sense of belonging.
• Identify reasons for considering belonging in your course planning and teaching.
• Implement teaching practices that foster welcoming environments.