8.+Harnessing+the+benefits+of+diversity+in+the+learning+experience

This session explores ways of harnessing the well documented educational benefits of diversity. Unitec states on its corporate website that its "...diversity makes it a truly unique study environment - vibrant, innovative, highly productive and bursting with creativity." While accepting the idea that human diversity in all of its forms has the potential to add value to a learning experience, this workshop argues that diversity as simple demographic 'head count' may or may not add value. However, it also posits that where student diversity is accompanied by a proactive approach to embedding equity and inclusion consciousness into all aspects of the learning experience, the educational benefits of diversity are greatly enhanced. Such an approach will not only allow Unitec to more effectively remove any barriers to student success, but will enable us to truly benefit from creating inclusive and adaptive learning environments in which diverse students' identities are affirmed and incorporated.

This session challenges participants to reflect on their current practice in the area of course design (learning outcomes, teaching and learning activities and assessments), and learning environment facilitation. In evaluating their current practice, participants will have the opportunity to further explore methods and techniques for effectively embedding equity and inclusion consciousness into all aspects of the learning experience.