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National Resource Center for The First-Year Experience and Students in Transition

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Overview

The Toolbox is a professional development resource that offers innovative, learner-centered strategies for improving teaching and learning for college students. 

Fall 2024 Update

The Toolbox was merged with Insights for College Transitions (formerly eSource) in fall 2024 to streamline publications and create one strong practitioner-oriented publication. Past editions of The Toolbox are found in Archives

Fall 2024 Publication

Insights for College Transitions, Volume 20 (Issue 1)
Creating Welcoming and Inclusive Spaces for Learning

Think about times when you have entered an unfamiliar setting where you were unsure of the rules and expectations. Examples might include spending the weekend with your future in-laws, that first day on a new job, or participating in a worship experience in a faith different than your own. In each of these circumstances, it is helpful to have someone serve as a guide and resource and to make you feel welcome. With this assistance, you learn what is expected and how to navigate in that unfamiliar setting.  We all need that assistance in our lives from time to time.

Now, consider the reality for students entering the unique and unfamiliar world of higher education. This is particularly true for first-generation students, students of color, international students, LGBTQ students, and others who may feel somewhat hesitant about whether they belong, are unfamiliar with campus customs and procedures, or feel they do not “fit” in college. Instructors can serve a crucial role in welcoming all students to the campus and their courses. However, the level at which they succeed in this role depends on five basic approaches to teaching and engaging with students.

About the Editor

Brad Garner

Brad Garner

Brad Garner is the director of faculty enrichment in the Center for Learning and Innovation at Indiana Wesleyan University. He has been actively involved for several years in directing and teaching the first-year seminar on his campus. Currently, Garner leads faculty enrichment at IWU’s National and Global campus. Before moving into higher education, his career was focused on program and faculty development in K-12 public school settings, where he worked as a classroom teacher, school psychologist, and administrator. Garner is a frequent presenter at conferences and workshops and has authored several publications, including Teaching in the First-Year Seminar (2012). His most recent research activity has focused on the use of digital technology to promote learning. Brad is the co-host of "The Digital to Learn Podcast" and does a weekly talk show called "Facebook Fridays."

 

 

 


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