Focusing on mental health, equity and inclusion, cultural diversity, and quality learning outcomes has led to the realisation that respect and supportive university environments are important. Any improvements will not only benefit equity groups but all students, as learning is also about social interaction.

Respect fosters inclusive and supportive learning environments that support students and staff in learning and academic discourses. This is particularly relevant in the current context of polarised public and social media interactions. In universities' quest for knowledge, respect is essential to ensure well-being, diversity of thought and meaningful discourse.

The purpose of this workshop is to develop a shared understanding of what respect looks and feels like in a modern educational context.

Participants will work in small groups to unpack key concepts, such as what respect is. How is respect given and received? And must respect be earned, and can be lost?

It is anticipated that this will provide participants with opportunities to reflect on their own understanding, experiences, and perceptions of respect, and how these influence their interactions with peers and students.