Sharing information
The exchange of information represents a crucial element concerning gender equitable, inclusive and diversity-attuned teaching and studying. Here it is necessary/helpful to regard the different levels and functional areas present at the university as a network that allows participatory communication unless the information is subject to official discretion or data protection regulations. Sharing and passing on of information is of relevance at the following levels: between teachers and students, between teachers within a department, as well as for interdisciplinary exchange and exchange with the entire university. Doing so is the individual responsibility of all actors – we understand the university itself as an actor and as a learning organization. When communication between individual levels becomes more active and more transparent, access to and participation in information (sharing) increases correspondingly. Generating, in this way, better orientation within the university environment as well as opportunities for networking while creating synergies. All of which results in more equitable and more sustainable tapping of the university’s inherent potential. (hnz)
Exchanging information in teaching and learning situations
The exchange of information not subject to official discretion or data protection regulations represents a constructive process which raises diversity awareness for students and teachers. Respectful interaction with one another can be encouraged from the very beginning of courses and seminars.
- In §76 para 2 of the University Act 2002 teacher’s transfer of information is defined: “Before each new semester begins, the course instructors shall, in addition to the published digital index in the meaning of para 1, inform the students appropriately of the objectives, the mode, contents, methods and fixed dates of their courses, as well as of the contents, mode, methods, dates, assessment criteria and the standards of assessment for examinations.”
- It is recommended to provide all relevant information in mdwOnline at least two weeks before the start of the course and to extensively discuss it in the first lesson.
- Employment of inclusive, gender-sensitive and diversity-aware language and images can be established informatively and informally (as the standard for communication) in the course.
The exchange of information between teachers
- on accessing information services and guidance bodies as well as the support services offered (peer support, individual coaching, further education offers, financial support,…)
- via regular field-specific exchange between colleagues within the university (e.g. department conference); also on a national and international level.
- via attending transdepartmental networks such as platforms and working groups (e.g.: Plattform Gender_mdw, Senats-AG queer_mdw (“Senate working group queer_mdw”), Senats-AG barrierefrei_mdw (“Senate working group accessible_mdw”), research projects etc.)
- via the offer/format of getting support/advice from a colleague concerning challenging moments in one’s own teaching
Relevant knowledge concerning areas of responsibility and key positions can simplify processes and procedures. This is linked to a transparent provision of information on the university website and to obtaining information on an individual basis.