[2C1] Co-creating inclusive learning spaces through strengths-based approaches to diversity

Our team of eight educators and six students co-designed learning activities and resources to support allied health students from diverse backgrounds in their on and off-campus learning environments. These students often face deficit views, including racism and microaggressions, which impact their well-being and performance. Drawing on strengths-based approaches to diversity and a six-step framework for responding to microaggressions, we designed learning activities to empower students to recognize and value their unique perspectives and to help them confidently navigate microaggressions in their learning environments. Across two workshops, a larger group of students and educators tested and further developed the activities. Most participants reported increased understanding of strengths-based approaches to diversity. While most students felt more confident applying strategies to deal with racism, discrimination, and microaggressions, a smaller percentage of educators felt the same. We’ll share the resources and activities developed and discuss their adaptability to different contexts.