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Values Clarification Activity

A dialogue activity at the start of the semester for students and the instructor to share what will help students learn best.

Why it matters

This practice has been shown to foster a positive learning environment with an increased sense of belonging (Foster & Hermann, 2011; Case et al., 2008; and Hermann & Foster, 2008). Researchers linked this to the following class dynamics:

  • Course expectations clarified
  • Goals defined
  • Sense of comfort with instructor and course content increased

How you can do it

The process below is just one way to hold a dialogue about values with your students — there are many others! Instructors have successfully scaled this model for small (12 students) and large (375 students) classes.

Step 1: Tell & Elicit

Tell students why discussing the values they and you have for this course is important. For example:

  • This will help me support your goals for the class and will help you understand how to succeed in this class
  • This will help us get to know each other and feel comfortable talking to each other, including when challenges arise

Elicit students’ values through questions such as

  • What do you need to learn best in this environment?
  • When you think of “the best teacher” or “the best class” you have had, what comes to mind?

Step 2: Share & Link

Share your values through statements such as:

  • When I think of what I need from you to achieve the best learning, I also…
  • When I think of “the best student,” these characteristics are similar…

Link students’ values to yours. For example:

  • Student value: Gives exams/papers back on time My value: Accountability, dependability
  • Student language: Explains things well. My value: Clarity
  • Student value: Is nice and personable. My value: Respect, authenticity
  • Student value: Answers questions, doesn't get frustrated. My value: Understanding, patience

Step 3: Agree & Sustain

Ensure that values are shared by seeking agreement

Adopt a mechanism to sustain the values continuously throughout the course:

  • An image, song, or famous character that embodies one or more of the values
  • Sharing a word or value of the day at the start of each class
  • Linking values to assignments and activities throughout the semester 
  • Think creatively!

References



Keywordsstart of semester, belonging, communicationDoc ID139074
OwnerMeredith M.GroupInstructional Resources
Created2024-08-12 12:21:19Updated2024-08-23 15:34:59
SitesCenter for Teaching, Learning & Mentoring
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