Introduction and Purpose

The Digital Pedagogy Institute (DPI) is proud to offer a rich schedule of events and activities for our attendees by creating an inclusive and welcoming virtual space to explore diverse approaches to digital pedagogy and engage in meaningful dialogue and professional development. This strength is a result of the speakers and participants that are willing to bring and share their experiences, expertise, and enthusiasm, whether in the role of participant or presenter. The DPI steering committee, along with all attendees (speakers, presenters, facilitators, participants and conference staff), can contribute to providing a positive event experience by showing respect and courtesy towards one another. To ensure a positive and respectful virtual conference experience, the DPI is drawing upon several frameworks including the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Canadian Human Rights Act and the United Nations International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination to collectively promote a virtual conference free from discrimination and harassment. 

Expected Behaviour

We value ideas, thoughts and expression, and we appreciate new pedagogy when delivering workshops and presentations. Conference speakers, presenters (facilitators) and participants have taken time and care in contributing to the advancement of digital pedagogy and we can demonstrate our understanding and respect for this by adhering to these guidelines: 

• Supportive Environment: Foster an environment where everyone feels welcome and encouraged to contribute.
• Inclusive Language: Use language that is inclusive and avoids stereotypes or assumptions about others' identities or backgrounds.
• Recognition and Respect: Acknowledge and respect the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of all participants, including the multiple ways people may engage.
• Constructive Feedback: Offer feedback that is constructive, specific, and aimed at fostering improvement and understanding.
• Respectful Disagreement: If disagreements arise, handle them respectfully and constructively without resorting to personal attacks or dismissive behavior.
• Conflict Resolution: Seek to resolve conflicts amicably, involving moderators or organizers if necessary.
• Active Listening: Pay attention to speakers, avoid interrupting, and respect differing opinions.
• Session Etiquette: Mute microphones when not speaking, use raise-hand features where applicable, and follow session-specific guidelines set by moderators.
• Participation Balance: Allow space for others to speak and contribute, especially in interactive sessions.

Harassment Prevention and Non-discrimination Statement

The DPI virtual conference is committed to providing a respectful, inclusive, and harassment-free environment for all speakers, presenters (facilitators), participants and conference staff. DPI adheres to the principles of the Ontario Human Rights Code, which prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, color, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status, disability, and receipt of public assistance. We do not tolerate harassment in any form. Harassment is understood as any behaviour that threatens another person or group or produces an unsafe environment.  

Unacceptable behaviour, specifically harassing behaviour and discriminatory actions, includes but is not limited to the following:

• Verbal Harassment: Discriminatory or offensive comments related to gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, religion, or any other personal characteristic.
• Non-Verbal Harassment: Displaying or sharing offensive images, pictures, recordings or gestures, making inappropriate or suggestive facial expressions or body language.
• Bullying: Persistent criticism, belittling, or intimidating behavior towards another participant.
• Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual attention, advances, or comments, including inappropriate touching, staring, or suggestive remarks.
• Excluding Others: Deliberately excluding individuals from discussions or activities based on personal characteristics or affiliations.
• Disparaging Comments: Making negative or derogatory comments about someone's background, experience, or expertise.

Zero Tolerance Policy and Consequences of Unacceptable Behaviour 

We have a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination and harassment of any kind. Any speaker, presenter (facilitator), participant or conference staff who violates this anti-discrimination and harassment statement may be subject to disciplinary action, including but not limited to:

• Immediate removal from the conference. 
• Prohibition from attending future events.

Reporting Unacceptable Behaviour

If at any time, a speaker, presenter (facilitator), participant or conference staff feels that they have experienced harassment or discrimination, or that this code of conduct has been breached, it is important that this person report it to the moderator(s) of the session or if the session has concluded then contact:

David Hutchison
Brock University
dhutchison@brocku.ca

Paulina Rousseau
University of Toronto
paulina.rousseau@utoronto.ca

Tim Ireland
University of Waterloo
tireland@uwaterloo.ca