Teaching Assistants' Training Program

Description

As our collective understanding of Accessible, Inclusive and Anti-Oppressive Pedagogies evolves, we develop practices to better support and accommodate for all types of learners in the classroom. “Neurodiversity” has emerged as a term to describe the unique differences in how our brains develop and how individuals interact differently with the world. This workshop is designed to give participants a foundational understanding of the concept of neurodiversity and explores various skills and strategies to support neurodivergent students in the classroom. Emphasis will be placed on the design and implementation of active learning techniques tailored to creating and maintaining a dynamic learning environment. Common biases and stereotypes about neurodivergence used in common teaching practices will be identified and dismantled to model how to foster an anti-oppressive learning environment for all. Participants will be provided with tools and resources to adapt existing course materials and assessments to ensure accessibility for neurodivergent students. Our goal is to provide participants a toolkit to promote collaboration, empathy, and understanding among neurodivergent and neurotypical students.