216) a class atmosphere conducive to learning has been maintained A classroom atmosphere that is conducive to learning is one where attention has been paid to many of the characteristics that make for good teaching and learning including respect for diversity and individual differences, an openness to differing points of view, encouragement of independent thought, use of active learning strategies and civility in the classroom. · Bertola & Murphy (1994) emphasise the importance of the first session and provide suggestions for setting ground rules and using icebreakers. · Achieving Diversity and Inclusivity in Teaching and Learning is a CUTSD project from the Centre for Staff Development (Centre for Staff Development, 1998). The project aims include "helping staff to develop their awareness of diversity issues in teaching and learning, to become informed of current best practice and to develop their competence in the design and implementation of inclusive curricula; to support staff through this process; and to foster both inter-disciplinary and intra-disciplinary networks of staff committed to achieving diversity and inclusivity in teaching and learning." The project report is available for download <http://www.csd.uwa.edu.au/adi/report/>. · Ramsden (1992) provides a discussion of some principles for effective teaching. · The UWA Charter of Student rights(University of Western Australia, 2000)(a policy of the university) outlines some general principles for respecting all students.
|