Psychological Safety in Teaching and Learning

Psychological Safety in Teaching and Learning is the first of three stand-alone units in the Neurodiversity & Engagement series.   Each unit totals 15 hours, yielding a badge.  The successful completion of all three units will yield a Touro University micro-credential.  The three units are Psychological Safety and Learning, Trauma-informed Approaches, and Neurodiversity in the Classroom.  

Each of the workshop-style units will examine how the latest research in neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology expands and informs our current work in education to support thriving and flourishing. To be specific, the units explore ways to support human brain development, social-emotional learning, trauma-informed teaching practices, and social justice through a deeper understanding of the human brain and nervous system. 

Psychological Safety in Teaching and Learning focuses on getting to know our nervous system.  Our brain’s central focus is to keep us safe. Through a process called neuroception, we are constantly scanning our surroundings to determine if we are safe. Understanding Polyvagal Theory enables us to identify our levels of safety and patterns of behavioral expression.  Mindfulness, breathwork, and other contemplative practices facilitate shifts in patterns of expression to better support our authentic being and belonging. 

Takeaways:

1. Recognize nervous system states and default behavioral patterns in self and students.
2. Learn tools to reset felt emotions; shifting default behavioral expressions to activate readiness for learning and work productivity.
3. Recognize student behaviors as adapted responses to stress rather than willful, intentional, or purposefully malicious.
4. Understand how the intersectional nature of implicit bias, microaggressions, and social marginalization in schools impacts psychological safety based on race, gender, varying ability, orientation, etc., in children and adults. 

The course is offered via a blended synchronous and asynchronous delivery mode comprising four modules. The course starts with asynchronous work that includes assigned readings, videos, discussion boards, and quizzes.  Throughout the course there are four synchronous Zoom sessions on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 – 7:30p.m. Participants are expected to complete all asynchronous assignments, and actively participate in the four interactive Zoom sessions.