Guidelines for Creating a Safe Space in the Classroom

(by Susan Shaw, Oregon State University)

Make a personal commitment to learning about, understanding, and supporting people who are different from myself.
Assume the best of others in the class and expect the best from them.
Acknowledge the impact of sexism, racism, ethnocentrism, classism, heterosexism, ageism, anti-Semitism, and ableism on the lives of class members.
Recognize and value the experiences, abilities, and knowledge each person brings to class. Value the diversity of the class.
Come to class prepared, having completed the readings and thought about the issues.
Listen actively. This involves paying close attention to what each speaker says without thinking of a response while the person is still speaking. It may also involve asking clarifying questions. These questions are meant to probe and shed new light, not to minimize or devalue comments.
Listen closely and respectfully to people for whom English is a second language. Do not assume that you cannot understand them because of an accent.
Do not talk while another person is speaking.
Think through your comments before you make them.
Make comments to the entire group and not to the person(s) near you.
Never make derogatory comments toward another person in the class.
Do not make sexist, racist, homophobic, or victim-blaming comments at all.
Be open to be challenged or confronted on your ideas or prejudices.
Challenge and confront others with the intent of facilitating growth. Do not demean or embarrass others.
Encourage others to speak up. Be especially encouraging of people who are working through their prejudices and attempting to grow.
Be willing to change.

I understand these guidelines and will support the efforts of our class to create a safe space.

_______________________ ______________________________
Student Instructor