Belonging Creating Connection and Bridging Divides

Book Discussion Chapters 2, 5, 9, 10

Who is Becca?

Value affirmations:

• I value deep connections with family and friends by crafting intentional moments with those I care about.
• I value success at work through the connections I make with students and building meaningful learning environments.

Chapter 2: Belonging Uncertainty

• Take a moment to think of a situation where you felt secure in your belonging. Write down any specific things that helped you feel a sense of belonging. Discuss in your small groups.
• Now take a moment to reflect on a situation where you felt your belonging was challenged. Write down things in that situation that contributed to this feeling. Discuss in your small groups.
• What are some intentional things you can do in your daily life (at work and/or socially) that can help contribute to a sense of belonging for others?

Chapter 5: Blaming the person, Ignoring the Situation

• Think about an experience where you have committed a Fundamental Attribution Error (FAE). You likely felt a strong emotional reaction in the moment. Free write about the experience and imagine what else could have been going on unseen in that situation. Were there confirmation biases at play in this situation?
• Discuss in your small groups - Share your experience if you are comfortable and get feedback from your group members.
• How can we check FAEs in everyday life?
• Are there things we can do personally to help reduce committing FAEs?

Belonging in School and Work

Discuss in your small groups

• How can we help foster belonging at Davidson College for students, staff, and faculty?
• How do we create classroom and work environments that are less stressful for individuals?
• Since we are not always in control of our environments, are there things you can do to contribute to your own sense of belonging to bolster you for stressful situations?