Date/Time
Date(s) - 09/10/2024
10:30 am - 11:30 am

Location
Physics and Astronomy Department

ABB 102

Speaker: Dr. Jackie Chini

Title: Associate Professor
Ohio State University
Dr. Chini Profile Link

Title: Supporting Variation in Students’ Needs, Abilities and Interests in Postsecondary Physics

Abstract: Students naturally vary in their needs, abilities and interests. For some students, these variations result in a medical diagnosis that unlocks legally mandated accommodations. But, providing access to students goes beyond providing these legal accommodations. I will describe a “toy model” for considering the ways in students likely vary, without needing to know the specific differences each student experiences, and how this model can inform decisions in physics education and training experiences. Then, I will discuss common models of disability and how physics instructors’ (likely unexamined) use of these models impacts our interactions with students and mentees. I will end with a call to action to intentionally examine our beliefs and practices to work towards a more inclusive physics environment.