In January 2023, the SMLC set up four student-led networks in January 2023; the Black Students Network, the Disability Network, the LGBTQ+ Network and the Widening Participation Network.
The aim of each is to work closely with the Senior Tutor team in order to make the SMLC an inclusive space for all students and staff by encouraging diversity within the department. By doing so, the networks aim to improve the experiences of groups of individuals that identify with and participate in these networks.
In addition, the SMLC runs an EDI Forum which are attended by network leads and staff. These meetings allow for the sharing of ideas and experiences, such as how the department can incorporate various themes into the curriculum, or adapt the way in which certain materials are approached.
The networks have also run events for staff to share tips on how to support students; for example, through accessible teaching methods. Network leads have also spoken at conferences about how they strive for inclusivity in the department.
Outputs:
The Disability Network has created a resource on accessibility tips and trips document, outlining the accessible features available in commonly used software such as Microsoft Word. It has worked on a questionnaires seeking feedback on the SMLC department. These aim to evaluate how supportive the department is of disabled students, and experiences of the year abroad.
The Black Students Network has tripled the number of students in its group chat, established an online social media presence on Instagram to promote events, initiatives, and other on-campus information and opportunities for black students. Additionally, two network socials have been organised; the first was an introduction, while the second provided tailored information about the year abroad to black students studying both languages and non-languages degrees, including a live Q&A session with their current year abroad rep.
The LGBTQIA+ Network has provided safe spaces within fun social events for queer students to discuss their experiences, concerns, and suggestions. Thanks to these successful social events, the network has greatly increased in membership and collects a lot of feedback regarding the department and university life in general.
The Widening Participation Network has hosted social events offering advice on subjects ranging from year abroad finances to support for students with caring responsibilities. Opportunities for WP students are shared via Instagram alongside tips and tricks for navigating the cost of living crisis. The network has also started to plan the upcoming WP Student Lifecycle Project.
The department has also seen some adaptations to teaching. For instance, the increased implementation of captioning on videos, which facilitates the learning of students with diverse needs.
Next steps: The networks will continue to organise more social events, information and accessibility sessions for SMLC students.
The Disability Network will be hosting study sessions every other week to collect study tips linked to learning languages with a disability, which will be compiled into a resource. The Black Students Network has drafted handbooks for students who are completing, or have completed their year abroad. These contain a series of questions about the more general side of preparing for and choosing a destination for a year abroad, as well as the factors that might impact black students in particular when deciding on a location. The LGBTQIA+ Network is launching a magazine celebrating queer culture, which is open to both staff and students. The network is also working on important resources for queer students on their year abroad regarding their safety and mental health. The Widening Participation Network is working closely with Orla Whelan-Davis and Cathy Hampton to set up the SMLC WP Lifeycle Project, which aims to learn more about the WP student experiences by running focus groups, for example, in order to identify short-, medium- and long-term solutions.
