Taoli Nov 12, 2022 DEI Meeting Notes

The roundtable discussed various issues, including recent changes in DEI practices at work, how DEI training impacts teacher classroom practices and teacher identity development, and strategies to overcome inadequacies in the teaching materials and meet the increasingly diverse student needs. The following important points were highlighted:

1. Take time to get to know the students and create an environment where everyone feels safe and accepted.

2. Incorporate representation of minority groups and diverse perspectives in language teaching.

3. Recognize that the negotiation of identity is a highly individualized, complex, and fluid process.

4. Take an active role in DEI efforts within and beyond the workplace.

The roundtable discussion led to a lively conversation among the Taoli members. One Taoli member, who researches inclusive education, shared that teaching in Chinese as a world language classroom deepened her understanding of the subject. Another member made a point that well resonated with the members at the meeting: one of the most effective ways to promote an inclusive culture is to strengthen the Chinese program and support the development of world language and cultural programs in general.