Faculty Learning at the Individual and Group Level: A Multi-Year Analysis of an Interdisciplinary Science Faculty Learning Community Focused on Inclusive Teaching and Mentoring

Abstract

Unaware of the diverse challenges faced by students, faculty can unintentionally create environments that discourage student persistence especially for students who are historically underrepresented in STEM. However, through inclusive teaching and mentoring practices, faculty can construct a positive classroom climate that contributes to students’ sense of belonging and persistence in STEM. Faculty learning communities (FLCs) provide a potential mechanism for providing faculty support in developing and successfully implementing inclusive practices. In this article, we describe (a) the implementation of a FLC focused on inclusive teaching and mentoring practices among science faculty across disciplines and ranks, (b) how participation in this multiyear, interdisciplinary FLC contributed to changes at the individual and group levels, including changes in faculty knowledge, skills, and implementation of inclusive teaching and mentoring practices, and (c) the ways in which the FLC fostered accountability for both individual and group goals. Implications for future initiatives designed to support science education reform through individual and institutional change are discussed.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rachel A. Hirst

Rachel A. Hirst ([email protected]) is an associate professor of biology at Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusetts.

Karen L. Anderson

Karen L. Anderson is a professor and chair of the Department of Education Studies at Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusetts.

Becky Wai-Ling Packard

Becky Wai-Ling Packard is a professor of psychology and education at Mount Holyoke College.

Louis J. Liotta

Louis J. Liotta is a professor of chemistry, Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusetts.

Bronwyn H. Bleakley

Bronwyn H. Bleakley is a professor and chairperson of biology, Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusetts.

Pamela J. Lombardi

Pamela J. Lombardi is an assistant professor of chemistry, Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusetts.

Kristin C. Burkholder

Kristin C. Burkholder is an associate professor and director of the Environmental Sciences and Studies Program, Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusetts.