Over a decade of research in social psychology indicates that learning mindsets play a role in students’ persistence and achievement; these mindsets are not fixed, but are shaped by messages students receive from society, from daily interactions and observations, and from their experiences in school. The Student Experience Project (SEP) is a national effort to foster a positive learning environment in the classroom and increase a student’s likelihood of persevering through academic challenges to graduation. As part of SEP, Temple University hosts a community of practice for faculty interested in collaborating with peers to implement evidence-based teaching practices proven to increase sense of belonging, convey a growth mindset, and foster inclusivity and institutional trust. In SEP, faculty:
- Revise course syllabi to include messaging and language proven to increase sense of belonging and growth mindset among students.
- Review course policies to ensure equitable experiences for all students.
- Utilize approaches to giving critical feedback in a way that engenders trust, increases academic engagement, and helps close academic outcome gaps.
- Implement practices to establish an identity-safe classroom where all students feel welcome and respected.
Faculty also have the opportunity to get frequent student feedback about their classroom experiences using Ascend, a survey tool that helps faculty reflect on and improve their teaching practices. By participating in the community of practice, faculty build expertise in inclusive teaching practices to improve student success for students of all backgrounds at Temple University.