Summary
Faculty can support students by building flexibility, offering varied ways to engage with course content, and fostering an understanding classroom environment from the start.
Faculty play a valuable role in creating accessible learning environments that support students’ academic success. However, supporting students does not always require major course changes or a significant increase in an instructor’s workload. Sometimes, small adjustments to course policies, content, and communication can make a meaningful difference for student success.
Faculty can create classrooms that better recognize students’ access needs while maintaining clear course expectations. They can do this by building flexibility into the course from the beginning, offering different ways for students to engage with content, and approaching students with understanding. Furthermore, here are three ways faculty can build greater flexibility and understanding into their courses.
Build Flexibility Into the Course Design
Rather than waiting for a student to encounter a challenge and request an extension, build accessibility into the course from the start. This can mean building flexibility into the course from the start.
For example, faculty can establish a 48–72-hour leeway window for assignments or provide students with a limited number of no-questions-asked extensions throughout the semester. The goal is not to eliminate deadlines or course expectations. Instead, recognize that students may occasionally need additional time and build in reasonable flexibility before those circumstances arise.
Provide Multiple Ways For Students To Engage With Course Content
Faculty can also support students by presenting course material beyond traditional readings.
In addition to assigned readings, consider incorporating formats such as:
- Podcasts or audio recordings
- Case study examples
- Infographics
- Diagrams
Offering different formats gives students additional ways to engage with course concepts and can make course content more accessible. It also provides opportunities to present information in ways that may help students better understand and connect with the material.
Lead With Understanding
Supporting students also begins with recognizing that they have responsibilities and challenges beyond the classroom. Faculty can communicate this understanding by letting students know that they are there to support them and by creating an environment where students feel comfortable navigating challenges when they arise.
A little flexibility in the syllabus, a different way to present course content, or a simple message reminding students that support is available can all contribute to a more understanding classroom. Creating a supportive learning environment does not require completely redesigning a course. Faculty can start with small, intentional changes that make their courses more flexible and manageable for students.
Watch out for our upcoming course, Building Accessible Courses in U.S. Higher Education. The goal of this course is to support faculty on the ongoing journey with actionable steps, incorporating accessibility into their class for both their students and themselves.
