As a program, the Transylvania psychology faculty approaches the understanding of the human experience from a biopsychosocial perspective. As such, we are committed to the creation and maintenance of inclusive learning spaces. These are classrooms, labs and other places of learning where you will be treated with respect and dignity and where all individuals are provided equitable opportunity to participate, contribute and succeed.
In our courses, all students are welcome regardless of race/ethnicity, gender identities, gender expressions, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, disabilities, religion, regional background, veteran status, citizenship status, nationality and other diverse identities that we each bring to class. As a program we also understand that these identities are embedded in a social system where diverse groups continue to face disparities created by a long history of structural and institutional oppression. Thus, the psychology program at Transylvania University is committed to devoting efforts and educational resources to understand the causes and consequences of structural inequality, and to the sources that promote resilience and well-being among diverse groups, by ensuring a climate that promotes awareness and develops knowledge about issues of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). We define diversity as inclusive of multiple and intersecting identities of the individual, and equity as a process of providing all groups with access to information and resources, as well as a careful consideration of existing barriers to ensuring equal opportunity for all. Inclusion involves both a tolerance of diverse views and civility of discourse, with a recognition that, without intervention, historically rooted systems of oppression create different opportunities and outcomes for students from different groups.
Your success in our courses and beyond is enhanced by the innovation and creativity of thought that inclusive classrooms facilitate. The success of an inclusive classroom relies on the participation, support, and understanding of you and your peers. We encourage you to speak up and share your views, but also understand that you are doing so in a learning environment in which we all are expected to engage respectfully and with regard to the dignity of all others.
Adapted from KU Center for Teaching Excellence