Leveraging the W.H.O.L.E. Experience Framework to Elevate Inclusive Learning

The case study methodology was used to analyze instructional strategies to discuss and refine diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices in two psychology courses at a community college in California’s Bay Area. A mentor and mentee professional development experience, referred to as the DEI studio, used four sessions over 5 weeks to explore reflective practice using the W.H.O.L.E. Experience framework as a guide to review current DEI practices and implement additional strategies intended to improve the engagement, experience, and success of all students. Student feedback and data were collected via a six-question student evaluation of the courses. Results showed that inclusion of the W.H.O.L.E. Experience framework elements, welcoming, holistic, open, liberating, and empowering, increased student belonging, motivation, engagement, and overall success. Educators/practitioners can employ this framework to consider their own DEI practices.