This workshop will explore techniques for instructors in the History of Art and related fields in the humanities (often known for their pronounced elitism) to design welcoming courses with an equal opportunity for learning for students of different economic, academic, and cultural backgrounds. Professor Dombrowski will discuss his own background teaching introductory and advanced History of Art courses to a broad range of Penn students, as well as present examples of past writing assignments that speak to the dimensions of different experiences and backgrounds of the undergraduate population. Keeping in mind the objective of leveling the playing field and ensuring that students of all means can thrive in a classroom where objects of great value are often discussed, graduate students participating will reflect on the challenges of introducing and clarifying disciplinary concepts, theories, and skills (visual analytical, critical thinking, and writing) in their teaching.

All graduate students are welcome. This event grows out of concerns in the History of Art department, and so may be most useful to students in related fields.

Counts toward the CETLI Teaching Certificate.