PROMOTING EQUITY IN LEARNING THROUGH REFLECTIVE WRITING

Part of the Lindenwood University Certificate in Culturally Responsive Assessment Speaker Series

Facilitator: Dr. Karen Singer Freeman, University of North Carolina-Charlotte

Description: Dr. Singer-Freeman describes the use of self-reflective writing in ePortfolios, tests, papers, and projects to increase student writing and improve equity in large general education courses and a summer research program. Incorporating frequent writing into courses is a high impact practice that is associated with deep learning, engagement, and persistence. Providing students with opportunities to demonstrate knowledge through autobiographical writing and shared reflections enhances cultural inclusiveness. The use of rubrics supports fairness and equity in assessment. Attendees will learn methods by which students can create self-reflective writing in large classes and learn about research that supports the proposition that self-reflective writing curricula encourage writing, reduce equity gaps, and support student wellness.

About the facilitator: Dr. Karen Singer-Freeman is the Director of Academic Planning and Assessment in the Office of Assessment and Accreditation at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Previously, Dr. Singer-Freeman served as an Associate Professor and Department Chair of Psychology at Purchase College, State University of New York where she received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. Her research examines educational interventions that support the academic success of underserved students. Dr. Singer-Freeman has authored articles and book chapters on ePortfolio pedagogy and assessment, and was named a Scientific Thinking and Integrative Reasoning Scholar by the Association of American Colleges and Universities.