Why You Should Make Inclusive Course Policies

In this episode of the Prof Talk Pod, we discuss what it means to create an inclusive syllabus and why it matters for student belonging and retention. Katie frames inclusive syllabi as designing course policies so students have equal access without needing to ask for special permission or feel singled out, especially around accommodations. Then, we unpack practical examples such as technology policies that can unintentionally reveal disabilities, rethinking attendance and “excused absences,” and building flexibility into late-work deadlines to reduce unnecessary emails while maintaining boundaries. We emphasize using community-based, respectful language (e.g., “we” and “you”), avoiding punitive tone, and setting clear parameters so only loud students don’t get rewarded. If you are ready to build more inclusive policies, reach out to university teaching centers and ask students for feedback.https://ctl.columbia.edu/resources-and-technology/resources/designing-inclusive-syllabus/