Gender Inclusivity and Professional Language Use in the Classroom

Author

Kaitlyn Ralston, Eastern Kentucky UniversityFollow
Russell Carpenter, Eastern Kentucky UniversityFollow
Lisa Day, Eastern Kentucky UniversityFollow

Preview

Creation Date

Spring 2017

Major

Photography

Department

Art and Design

Degree

Undergraduate

Mentor

Russell Carpenter

Mentor Department

English and Theatre

Abstract

Great teaching is student-centered, respects diversity, and ensures equity in the classroom. Encouraging inclusivity and professionalism in students requires educators to model those same practices. Students are increasingly identifying as non-binary genders, and noting this change inside the classroom is vital to optimal student success (Harris Poll, 2017).

Language is dynamic, as is Gender Studies. As a result, many educators are unaware of linguistic changes related to gender identity, but practicing inclusivity in the classroom should be a priority for teaching and learning. Such innovation in language use will allow educators to create a better connection with their students and improve the overall classroom environment.