One of the foundational precepts of equity-minded and inclusive teaching is recognizing the individuality of students in our classes, and it begins with names.
Even in very large classes where it’s not possible to learn everyone’s name, research shows that providing students with name tents (they don’t have to be fancy!) and using student names improves learning. Striving to correctly pronounce names matters to students, and increases their sense of belonging.
Consider having students use one of the many free apps available to record the correct pronunciation of their preferred name (see Syracuse University Preferred Name Policy) and, if they wish, pronouns.
Additional Resources
Academic Success Tip: Learn Students’ Names | Inside Higher Ed
Michelle Miller, A Teacher’s Guide to Learning Student Names (Oklahoma University Press, forthcoming November 2024)
Tips for Learning Student Names | Ohio State University, Teaching and Learning Resource Center
5 Tips for Quickly Learning Student Names | Science Lessons That Rock
How to Learn Student Names Quickly | The Arty Teacher
Learning Student Names and Pronouns | Yale University, Poorvu Center for Teaching and Learning