Equity-Based Syllabi Statements: CPS

Equity-Based Syllabi: Statements

CPS has implemented mandatory inclusions on syllabi, while also providing suggested language. See below for a range of statements:

Inclusion in the Classroom 

Gratitude is extended to Professor Micah Stickel from the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering for sharing this statement, which has been adapted for UTM/CPS:

You belong here. The University of Toronto commits to all students, faculty, and staff that you can learn, work, and create in a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment. In this class, we embrace the broadest range of people and encourage their diverse perspectives. This team environment is how we will innovate and improve our collective academic success. You can read the evidence for this approach here.  

We expect each of us to take responsibility for the impact that our language, actions and interactions have on others. The Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences (CPS) denounces discrimination, harassment and unwelcoming behaviour in all its forms. You have rights under the Ontario Human Rights Code. If you experience or witness any form of harassment or discrimination, including but not limited to, acts of racism, sexism, Islamophobia, anti- Semitism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism and ageism, please tell someone so that we can intervene. CPS takes these reports extremely seriously. You can talk to anyone you feel comfortable approaching, including your professor, teaching assistant, technician, an academic advisor, our Chairs, members of our Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity Committee, or any staff member at our Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Office.  

You are not alone. Working together, we can all achieve our full potential.

Course Code of Conduct and Expectations 

Each member of this course is expected to maintain a: 

  • Professional and respectful attitude during all course activities, including lectures, labs, and online activity.  
  • Personal calendar/schedule/organizer to ensure that all course activities are completed and due dates are met. 
  • Collection of class notes recorded independently based on concepts covered in lectures and labs (students registered with Accessibility Services requiring a class note-taker will have access to this accommodation). 
  • Familiarity with the university policy on Academic Integrity. 

Equity Statement 

The University of Toronto is committed to equity and respect for diversity. All members of the learning environment in this course should strive to create an atmosphere of mutual respect. As a Course Instructor, I will neither condone nor tolerate behaviour that undermines the dignity or self-esteem of any individual in this course and wish to be alerted to any attempt to create an intimidating or hostile environment. It is our collective responsibility to create a space that is inclusive and welcomes discussion. Discrimination, harassment and hate speech will not be tolerated. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, you may contact the UTM Equity and Diversity officer at edo.utm@utoronto.ca or the University of Toronto Mississauga Students’ Union Vice President Equity at vpequity@utmsu.ca. 

Accommodations for Learning Needs 

The University of Toronto Mississauga supports accommodations for students with diverse learning needs, which may be associated with mental health conditions, learning disabilities, autism spectrum, ADHD, mobility impairments, functional/fine motor impairments, concussion or head injury, blindness and low vision, chronic health conditions, addictions, deafness and hearing loss, communication disorders and/or temporary disabilities, such as fractures and severe sprains, or recovery from an operation. 

If you have a learning need requiring an accommodation, we recommend that students register as soon as possible with Accessibility Services. 

Accommodations for Religious Observances 

Following the University's policies, reasonable accommodations will be made for students who observe religious holy days that coincide with the due date/time of an assignment, lab session, or lecture. Students must inform the instructor before the session/assignment date to arrange accommodations. 

Mental Health 

Gratitude is extended to Professor Micah Stickel from the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering for sharing this statement, which has been adapted for UTM/CPS:

As a university student, you may experience a range of health and/or mental health challenges that could result in significant barriers to achieving your personal and academic goals. Please note, the University of Toronto (St. George and Mississauga campuses) offer a wide range of free and confidential services that could assist you during these times. 

As a CPS student, you have an Academic Advisor who can support you by advising on personal matters that impact your academics. Other resources include: 

If you find yourself feeling distressed and in need of immediate support resources, consider reaching out to the counsellors at My Student Support Program (MySSP) or visiting the Feeling Distressed webpage. 

Acknowledgement of Traditional Lands 

We wish to acknowledge this land on which the University of Toronto operates. For thousands of years it has been the traditional land of the Huron-Wendat, the Seneca, and the Mississaugas of the Credit. Today, this meeting place is still the home to many Indigenous people from across Turtle Island and we are grateful to have the opportunity to work on this land. 

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