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SWRK 134: Crimes Without Victims

Collaborative, Engaging, Inclusive

Reflection on Instructional Change:

I chose to implement “Collaborative Classroom Norms” as a first day of class activity. I placed students into small breakout groups to brainstorm what behaviors they found particularly bothersome in a Zoom class and what norms they wanted to set for the class. They were instructed to focus on norms that would help to create safety, collaboration, and facilitate useful discussions. They undertook this activity after the course introduction. I took these steps because this class covers a number of controversial topics and integrates discussions throughout. The goal is to create a safe space where students feel comfortable sharing their opinions and even their life experiences when appropriate.

Implementing this practice seemed to open the door for more engagement earlier in the semester. I was also able to refer back to the class norms when behaviors were starting to get too far off track. I did receive informal feedback from students that they had never been given the opportunity to set class norms. One student in particular said they were unsure if they would stay in the class considering the sensitive nature of the topics but after participating in this exercise they stayed in the class and participated throughout the semester. Another student described the activity as “cool” that they had a say.

The implementation resources are perhaps the most beneficial. I appreciate the videos and find the engagement with my peers to always present valuable feedback and differing perspectives but the implementation resources go beyond just the modules and are tangible resources I can refer back to at any time.

I had an excellent group for my O&A session as they provided valuable feedback on how I could improve my approach. Interestingly, they described the process using the nominal group technique, which I teach in my Social Work practice course. However, I hadn't realized I was applying this method during the activity.

Evidence of Instructional Change

Screen grab of class norms discussion prompt

Class norms brainstorm

Screen grab of class expectations and norms

Class expectations and norms

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Practice and Reflect on: Setting Ground Rules for Productive Discourse

Course Syllabus: Social Work 134 - Fall 2024

Faculty Bio

I have been a lecturer in the School of Social Work since 2013. I am proudly Made at Sac State receiving my BA, MSW (Social Work), and MS (Criminal Justice) here. Prior to returning to Sac State, I spent my professional life as a public policy analyst with a focus on policies affecting people with severe and persistent mental illness. In my off time I enjoy my two dogs, woodworking, learning new things, and wandering the outdoors. In the words of Tolkien, "Not all those who wander are lost."

This work was supported by:

National Science Foundation Hispanic Serving Institution Project STEM Zone DUE 1832335

US Department of Education Hispanic Serving Institution Project Degree with a Purpose P031S210061

US Department of Education Hispanic Serving Institution Project STEM4Equity P031C210012

*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 the National Science Foundation or the US Department of Education.

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