Inclusivity within Criminology Classrooms

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

Remaining sensitive to different perspectives and cultures has never been more important in the criminal justice professions, especially in the wake of widespread unrest over social issues. It is imperative that future criminal justice professionals learn how to be inclusive and should be shown by example from the first day of class. This poster will discuss the importance of language within the class contract, the syllabus, in enhancing inclusiveness for diverse student populations. Current and emerging law on third-gender and transgender identification in California will be addressed, as well as acknowledging and responding to students who might suffer basic needs insecurity and other challenges that can impact student success. Additionally, methods for increasing inclusiveness and the likelihood of student success will be explored from the perspective of the first-day interactions between instructors and learners, and learners and learners. Self-disclosure, both volunteered and student-initiated, and effective use of additive grading and incentives through judicious awards of extra credit will be highlighted.

Authors

• Marc Glidden, California State University, Northridge

• Jaycynda Trifone-Woodruff, California State University, Northridge