George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in Teaching
Creating inclusive and accessible learning environments is essential to supporting the diverse needs, identities, and experiences of students. This section brings together key resources to help faculty design and deliver courses that promote equity, inclusion, and meaningful participation for all learners.
Inclusive teaching recognizes that students come to the classroom with different backgrounds, perspectives, and ways of learning. By intentionally designing courses that value this diversity, instructors can foster a sense of belonging and create opportunities for all students to succeed. This includes using a variety of teaching strategies, encouraging multiple forms of participation, and ensuring that course materials reflect diverse voices and experiences.
Accessible pedagogy focuses on reducing barriers to learning by designing courses that are flexible and inclusive from the outset. Rather than making adjustments after challenges arise, accessible teaching practices aim to anticipate student needs and provide multiple ways for students to engage with content, demonstrate learning, and access resources. This approach benefits all learners, not only those who may require accommodations.
Anti-racist pedagogy and decolonizing curriculum practices further support inclusive teaching by critically examining whose knowledge is represented and how it is taught. These approaches encourage educators to challenge systemic inequities, incorporate diverse perspectives, and create learning spaces that are respectful, reflective, and responsive to all students.
Creating an accessible learning environment also involves practical considerations such as clear course organization, accessible documents and media, and the use of technologies that support all learners. Small changes in design and delivery can have a significant impact on student access and engagement.
Together, these areas provide a foundation for inclusive and accessible teaching. The resources in this section are designed to support faculty in building learning environments that are equitable, flexible, and responsive to the needs of all students.