Anne Uilhoorn on her experiences
24 January 2024
Anne Uilhoorn is Lecturer-3 at the Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies, where she teaches in the Bachelor's programme Future Planet Studies. "In this study, the students look at complex sustainability issues from a range of disciplines. This makes working at Future Planet Studies very fun, but also challenging at times, especially since I deal with a diverse group of students." To still be able to create an inclusive learning environment, Anne followed Step Into Your Student Shoes, a development project by TLC Science.
Intense discussions
"A concrete example of the challenges I face occurred during a project on the nitrogen crisis. My working group included students from farming families and nature activist students, which led to intense discussions. In a safe environment with colleagues, I learned how to deal effectively with these 'hot moments' and intervene appropriately when necessary. Such experiences made me realise the importance of being able to create an inclusive learning environment as a teacher."
Awareness
Participation in the learning path has provided Anne with valuable insights and skills. "Through interactive workshops and discussions, I explored my own thinking and identified blind spots," she says. She has also gained knowledge about various forms of inclusiveness and what does and does not work in the classroom. "This awareness helps me daily to reflect on my lessons and design them in such a way that all students feel valued and supported."
Deeper understanding
Meanwhile, Anne actively applies this knowledge in her teaching practice. "I am currently working on a course in which students have to write their own research proposal. In doing so, I try to offer a wide range of teaching activities and assessment opportunities so that different learning styles are supported. This is not only to promote inclusiveness, but also to encourage a deeper understanding of the teaching material."
Anne highly recommends other teachers to participate in Step Into Your Student Shoes. "It broadened my perspective and gave me concrete tools to create an inclusive learning environment. Sharing experiences with colleagues and practising situations has really helped me deal more effectively with diversity in the classroom."