F. Authenticity

What does authenticity mean in the classroom? For different instructors, authenticity can mean different things, ranging from personal connection with students, to creating an intellectual community, to connecting students beyond the classroom into a future field of study. Like assessment, students had some important things to say about authenticity and its importance for an inclusive climate.

1. Create an intellectual community by soliciting voices on current issues in the field
2. Convey the rationale for course readings and activities
3. Approach content development for the course as though you are helping to develop professionals in the field
4. Offer the opportunity to work in groups–with peers, individuals at other institutions or external professionals in the field
5. Share your own perspectives and voice