For students to do their best learning, and to support a classroom environment that is inclusive for all learners, it’s important for instructors to create a high trust, low stress environment (Hammond, 2019). In a high trust classroom environment, students feel that they belong; they feel heard and are comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and taking risks because they are told that mistakes are part of the learning process. In a low stress classroom environment, instructors show that they care about their students by setting clear expectations and accommodating course policies, being available to students and providing feedback, and meeting students where they are in their learning. When combined, high trust and low stress in the classroom, leads to a greater sense of belonging and inclusivity, and much richer learning opportunities for students.
