New Decolonising the Curriculum resource

The University’s guide to decolonising the curriculum has been updated for 2023, offering even more support in making our teaching inclusive.

Building on the well-received first edition, Decolonising the Curriculum 2023 features new case studies from colleagues, and input from student inclusion consultants.

These students share their experiences of teaching and learning at Reading, giving their perspective on what has worked well, and what they would like to see improve.

The guidance includes advice on forging successful student-staff partnerships, and poses a series of reflective questions to help colleagues to embed inclusive practice in their own teaching.

For the first time, the resource also includes practical guidance on applying the principles of decolonising the curriculum to research practice.

Why it matters

The University’s guidance was developed as a direct result of the 2021 Race Equality Review, which recommended an institutional programme to decolonise the curriculum.

Students who took part in a listening exercise for this resource highlighted the importance of inclusivity and cultural representation in the classroom and beyond in making a safe and appropriately challenging learning environment. A variety of viewpoints and a culture of mutual respect are supported by students and colleagues demonstrating their commitment to inclusive teaching.

Professor Al Laville, Dean for Diversity and Inclusion, said: “The updated guidance is another important step in us addressing the recommendations of the University’s Race Equality Review and the student experience actions within our Bronze Race Equality Charter action plan.

“We can all do more to ensure that all students thrive at Reading by taking the time to consider how the different viewpoints and perspectives of an incredibly diverse student body are affected by our assumptions and established ways of doing things.

“I’m grateful to the Working Group and the student inclusion consultants who have given their time and perspectives so generously to help colleagues reflect and make positive changes.”

Colleagues can also find out more about the 2023 Decolonising the Curriculum resource at the upcoming hybrid CQSD session on Wednesday 18th October between 2-3.30pm. Sign up now on UoRLearn.