Open AccessFaculty Development's Role in Promoting an Inclusive Community: Addressing Sexual Orientation
Author(s) -
Ferren Ann S.,
Geller William W.
Publication year - 1993
Publication title -
to improve the academy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2334-4822
DOI - 10.1002/j.2334-4822.1993.tb00239.x
Subject(s) - lesbian , sexual orientation , psychology , public relations , pedagogy , work (physics) , sociology , sexual minority , engineering ethics , political science , social psychology , gender studies , engineering , mechanical engineering
Faculty development programs have been at the forefront for the last decade in confronting new issues related to teaching and learning. These collective efforts have encouraged faculty to engage more directly and more deeply with students and ideas. Central to each of these efforts has been self‐reflection and thoughtful analysis of the issues. Sexual orientation has not been a significant part of that personal study or dialogue. For those of us committed to strengthening our academic communities, recognizing this exclusion of the gay, lesbian, and bisexual community demands that we work to reduce the barriers. This will mean a renewed commitment to faculty development efforts that enhance the teaching and learning environment for all. While the issue is complex and the questions are difficult, there are a number of beginning strategies that faculty development specialists can use in taking a proactive role.