After suggesting and agreeing together on discussion rules, we will all accept to apply them throughout the semester, so that our class is a safe and engaging space that promotes learning.
All students must ratify this charter by commenting on this page and writing “approved.” If a student disagrees with any rules, which is their right, they should write to me and we will discuss the matter in class.

During our group discussion we concluded that during class discussions we would want others to stick to the topic while trying to contribute to the discussion, be respectful to others and for our professor to be understanding and aware when students are falling behind.

We will:

• Challenge each other’s ideas in a respectful manner, questioning the ideas, not the person (this is true for text authors, the professor, and classmates: reading ideas is not approving them but only questioning them.
• Explore the texts in depth, especially the parts less understood.
• Be on time to class, as a mark of respect to ourselves and others.
• Make a collective effort to participate actively, both in class and online.
• Make the conversation space equal by being mindful of how much space we take and leave for others.
• Focus on understanding the material and the learning process rather than looking for “the right answer.”
• Where appropriate (e.g. peer-review activities, comments), give honest and respectful feedback to one another.
• Make this class a judgement-free space, where no idea is wrong and everyone is welcome.
• Keep an open mind.
• Welcome missteps, as messing up is learning.
• Learn how to think, not what to think.

We will not:

• Challenge each other on a personal level or in a disrespectful way.
• Talk at the same time or interrupt others.
• Let others do the work in our stead, both in class and when working in groups.
• Make assumptions about anyone.

Further additions:

• We agree to revaluate the functioning of the course around midterm.
• We agree that any changes, removals, or additions to this Charter must be ratified by the whole class.