Participation Norms for Small Group and Classroom Discussions

We will engage in a lot of small group and classroom discussion during the semester. In order for that to be productive and welcoming for everyone I'd like to ask you to follow the following norms for how we interact with each other this semester. We will periodically revisit these during the semester and can add or change anything depending on how things are going.

1. Create an Engaging Space : Sit in a circle facing one another with enough free space to be comfortable. If online, have your camera on, be in a quiet space where you can freely speak, and use a device with a working microphone and a keyboard.

2. Establish a Personal Connection : Always begin with introductions and the Scribe ice-breaker before starting on the questions.

3. Respect your Peers : Avoid multitasking and remain fully present during discussions.

4. Trust Yourself : Rely on your own knowledge and our assigned materials rather than external searches or AI. 

5. Speak Your Truth : Use "I" statements. You are the expert on your own experience, not a spokesperson for any other group.

6. Trade Certainty for Curiosity : If you hear something you don't agree with or don't understand, listen and ask questions before reacting.

7. Take the Learning, Leave the Stories: Any personal stories should stay in the classroom, but take the lessons and insights you learn with you.