The Impact of Diversity Statements in the Course Syllabus on Students’ Perceptions of the Instructor and Course

This study assessed how the inclusion of a diversity statement affects student perceptions of the instructor and course. Undergraduates (N = 555) evaluated one of six randomly assigned course syllabi, differing by the presence/position of the diversity statement and instructor gender. We found that the presence of a diversity statement led to more positive evaluations of the course climate and instructor character and impartiality, yet also higher for instructor political liberal ideology. These results were present even after controlling for key demographic factors. These findings draw attention to the opportunity that diversity statements offer in fostering effective teaching and learning.