Inclusive STEM Teaching Spring 2023

MATH 24: Modern Business Math

Cultivating Connection, Inclusion

Reflection on Instructional Change:

Inclusive Syllabi - A priority was to create and set a welcoming environment for the start of the class. Therefore, I wanted to create a syllabus with a positive, friendly, and inviting tone. In the past, my syllabi have been concise and rather cold. The reasoning was that students were unlikely to read the syllabus if it was too long and would take advantage if I gave the impression of being too friendly. I hope that with the change in tone and detailed description of the learning objectives and schedule, the students will have an easier time visiting my office hours or asking for help when needed.

Cultivating Connection - In keeping with the theme of creating a welcoming atmosphere for the class, my second objective was to cultivate connections with my students to ensure they feel comfortable coming to me for help when they need it. I created a questionnaire on Canvas for students to share information about themselves, not only in regards to academics but personal questions that allow me to get to know them. I would also like to incorporate an anonymous mid-semester survey to ask for ideas and feedback on what works in class and what may be improved.

Evidence of Instructional Change

Revised Syllabus

Cultivating Connection - About You Questionnaire

Course Syllabus and Schedule

Faculty Bio

Judith Lopez:

I completed my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Mathematics at Sacramento State University. I have one dog, Percy, and a cat named Millie, and 2 stray cats that my husband refuses to let me adopt. I enjoy running and hiking but mostly laying on the couch and watching movies with my human and furry companions.

75 years as Sacramento's University 1947-2022

This work was supported by:

Grant funding from Sacramento State Division of Inclusive Excellence

*Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Sacramento State.