Resources

A multi-part exposition of constructivism, with special attention to the roles and practices of the teacher and learner in a constructivist classroom.

A frequently-cited, critical review of an edited work, Constructivism in Education (Stephe and Gale, 1995). Jaworski offers summary and analysis of the book's chapters, each of which advocates for or critiques some form of constructivism in education.

An online workshop on constructivism. Includes overview, history, critical perspectives, expert interviews, demonstration, and more.

Helpful, brief list of teaching strategies. Addresses why and how to use inclusive teaching strategies in the college classroom. Highlights potential benefits

Discusses issues in coping with religious diversity in the classroom. Suggests confronting students’ assumptions regarding religion; strategies for countering resistance; and finding benefits of diversity.

Provides suggestions on how to improve scores on IDEA item #16 relating to sharing with others who are different or whose viewpoints are different. Gives background on this item and other similar items; identifies tips for classroom engagement; addresses issues relating to online learning; and identifies assessment issues.

Two-page PDF on the Indiana University website with seven quick tips on improving communication with culturally diverse students. Examples: learn names; listen; and limit unclear language.

Provides 12 tips on enhancing student learning when teaching issues of diversity in the college classroom. Examples: Gain awareness of biases; specify course objectives; encourage higher order thinking skills; and create and safe and engaging classroom climate. Includes links to more detailed discussion of each tip.

Chronicle of Higher Education article (May 2013). Discusses experiences of an openly gay professor teaching a year-long first-year core course. He struggles with fear of teaching a text that dealt with issues of homosexuality while also allowing an open forum for discussion.

Focuses on issues relating to “international students.” Discusses major differences between U.S. and international students in terms of background and understanding of academic environment. Provides suggestions for instructor on coping with cultural differences.