As teachers, it is important to be aware of the wide range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives of our students. This awareness needs to be translated to the curriculum, pedagogy and all aspects of university life to ensure inclusiveness for all students and success with their learning. One way this can be done is focussing on and supporting students’ many transitions, in particular but not restricted to beginning university and the first year experience.
… all university teachers, regardless of discipline, need to address students’ varied learning needs through inclusive teaching practices. It also requires some understanding of university life as a culture in itself, to which all students must have some introduction to support their transition to university study.
(Brougham and Hunt, 2010, p183)