Glossary of inclusive communication terms

Poth (2024) notes that, in mixed methods research, the words scholars choose shape the inclusivity and atmosphere of their professional spaces. A similar principle applies in teacher education, where a shared language, when addressing diversity,  is essential to ensure that terms are understood and interpreted consistently. Developing a shared critical language is therefore necessary in education (Cochran-Smith, 2024).

The Glossary of Inclusive Communication provides a carefully curated collection of terms and concepts used in the context of diversity, inclusion, and equity. It offers definitions and explanations that could also be relevant to educational settings. Users can consult the glossary to reflect on terms that support inclusive communication and understanding.

Entries include concepts such as Disability, Gender, Intersectionality, LGBTQ+, Racism, Universal Design, and more.

This glossary, available only in Dutch, supports inclusive dialogue and practice across education. By raising awareness of how language influences relationships, the glossary becomes a practical tool for cultivating inclusive learning environments. This process begins with teacher educators, enabling student teachers to create inclusive environments during their internships and future practice. This list is part of the larger page on inclusive communication on the UGent website.

Creators: Inclusive Communication Working Group
Affiliation: University of Ghent

Access to the resource: link

References
Cochran-Smith, M. (2000). Blind Vision: Unlearning Racism in Teacher Education. Harvard Educational Review, 70 (2), 157–190. https://doi.org/10.17763/haer.70.2.e77x215054558564
Poth, C. N. (2024). Fostering Equity and Diversity Through Essential Mixed Methods Research Inclusive Language Practices. Journal Of Mixed Methods Research, 18(2), 110–114. https://doi.org/10.1177/15586898241238875

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