JEDI Syllabi

Syllabi Statement from the College

NUMBER 1:

Historically, the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) field was dominated by white, cisgender, heterosexual men which led to one-sided readings, teachings, philosophies, and approaches in this field. To address this historically narrow perspective and the systematic injustices perpetuated by this perspective for decades, the College of Engineering has committed to a holistic Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion plan that I as your instructor, am committed to as well.

As your instructor,I aim to create an environment where diverse perspectives, thoughts and ideas are celebrated, and your experience feels dignified and meaningful. However, I cannot guarantee that this space will always be safe. I can guarantee we will work to address the moments when it is not. If there are moments through class where situations arise and you feel uncomfortable, please come and speak with me either in person or by email. You can also contact the JEDI office. Additionally, if there are any parts of your identity you would like me to know, please feel free to come by my office hours, email or speak with me after class. I want to honor who each of you are. This could include any but more of the following:

  • Pronouns you would like me to use
  • A name you would prefer me to use you
  • Any religious services you attend that may have you miss class
  • If adjustments for classwork/testing is needed, we can work with the Center for Educational Access (CEA) office to arrange accommodations

 

NUMBER 2:

Engineering is a diverse field of disciplines and individuals. Over the years, the College of Engineering has expanded to reflect these different engineering disciplines. Now, we are working to ensure our college reflects the diversity of the individuals within it as well. The College of Engineering has committed to a holistic Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion plan that I as your instructor, am a committed to as well. As part of this plan, I am making individual and classroom level adjustments to better meet my students where they are. As this is a work in progress, I always welcome students’ thoughts or questions on this topic. Students can also always contact the JEDI office with thoughts or questions.

 

NUMBER 3:

It is my intent that regardless of a student’s background, this class serves them well and they feel that their needs are met—both in and outside the classroom. It is my intent that students’ various identities, thoughts, and perspectives are seen as a source of strength to this class. It is my intent that the materials presented and activities completed are respectful of students various social identities. As we continue forward and address justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) in the classroom and in our college, student’s suggestions and comments are welcomed and encouraged. Students can also learn more about the College of Engineering JEDI plan here.

This syllabi statement is informed by faculty and resources from Brown University.

 

NUMBER 4:

In engineering we demand the best of our students and provide them with a comprehensive education to ensure their success. This education has historically focused on technical skills; however, to ensure our students are able to competently address all the problems facing our society, we, the College of Engineering and myself, are expanding our education and initiatives to include justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI).

As your instructor, I am committed to respecting each of your unique identities and developing a course that is inclusive of various perspectives and meets each of you at your starting point. As I am continuing to develop my approach and teachings in the JEDI area, I know mistakes will be made. Please feel free to come and speak with me or reach out to JEDI Office should a situation ever arise in class, with another peer or myself that you would like to discuss further.

 

NUMBER 5:

The College of Engineering recently implemented a Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) plan that I, as your instructor, am committed to honoring as well. As I continue to develop in my own JEDI approach, I always welcome feedback and thoughts from students about class.

 

NUMBER 6:

I believe that the classroom experience is improved when various perspectives and thoughts are shared and discussed. People’s various perspectives can be informed by their prior education or experience with a topic. People’s perspectives can also be informed from their lived experiences related to their social identities such as, but not limited to, gender, sexual orientation, race or ethnic identity, national origin, native language, disabled and non-disabled experiences, age, or documentation status.

As your professor my goal is to create a culture where all these perspectives are respected and seen in class discussion, class activities, and lectures/readings. As I continue to develop and adjust my class to reflect the College of Engineer’s Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) plan, I may make mistakes. Please feel comfortable to approach me if these moments ever occur or you can speak with JEDI Office. I want each of us to be seen and heard in this class.