Every year, international students from more than 100 countries bring unique perspectives that enrich our campus community. These students face distinct challenges as they adapt to the U.S. academic environment, and it is vital for instructors and staff to understand how best to support their success in the classroom.
To facilitate this, the International Student and Scholar Office (ISSO) and the Center for Transformative Teaching (CTT) have been delivering collaborative workshops since spring 2023 that bring together faculty and staff on campus that support our international students. This spring, join us for three interactive sessions focused on communicating explicit expectations, creating inclusive assessments, and understanding the impact of program closures and visa issues on students’ academic performance and life in the US.
Each panel will take place via Zoom. Join these informative discussions and discover how we can work together to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for international students at UNL. Registration is available online at https://go.unl.edu/ctt-isso-workshops-spring-2026.
Setting Explicit Expectations: Building Clarity Across Cultures
February 10, 2026, 12:30pm -1:30pm
Clear communication of expectations is essential for student success, especially for those navigating a new academic culture. This session will provide tools for articulating course policies, participation norms, and academic standards in ways that minimize ambiguity. We will discuss common areas of misunderstanding and share techniques for fostering transparency and trust.
Designing Fair and Inclusive Assessments Across Cultures
March 10, 2026, 12:30pm – 1:30pm
Some assessment practices can unintentionally disadvantage students unfamiliar with U.S. academic norms. This session explores strategies for creating inclusive assessments that account for a wide range of educational backgrounds while supporting students' desire to learn. Participants will learn practical approaches to reduce cultural bias, ensure clarity, and support academic integrity, while fostering confidence, engagement, and academic success for all students.
Navigating Uncertainty: Supporting International Students Through Program and Policy Changes
April 14, 2026, 12:30pm – 1:30pm
Announced program closures and evolving visa regulations have introduced disruptive uncertainty for international students, affecting their academic progress and overall well-being. This session examines how these disruptions influence students’ educational continuity and sense of stability, and offers guidance on proactive communication and resource referral. Faculty and staff will gain insights into compliance considerations and strategies to help students navigate these challenges.
More details at: https://teaching.unl.edu/events-workshops/workshops/#isso