How can campuses go beyond mere Title IX compliance to become genuinely safe and inclusive for all students?

Most Higher Education (HE) professionals understand the importance of educating students on Title IX, but the challenge lies in engaging students effectively. Since recent studies show that college students are largely unaware of their institution's Title IX proceedings, it’s no mystery why engaging students matters so much. When students are actively involved and informed, meaningful progress toward fairer and safer campuses becomes possible, and regulatory compliance is better ensured. 

In this article, we'll explore the need for student engagement alongside four actionable techniques to enhance student engagement in Title IX education. By the end, you'll have practical tools to energize your Title IX initiatives and make a lasting impact on your campus community.

What is Title IX?

Title IX is a federal civil rights law passed as part of the Education Amendments of 1972. It states that "No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance." 

Key aspects of Title IX include:

• Prohibition of Sex Discrimination: Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sex in any federally funded education program or activity. 
• Requirements for Schools: Schools must have policies and procedures in place to handle complaints of sex discrimination, provide a prompt and equitable resolution, and ensure a safe learning environment. They must also appoint a Title IX coordinator as the point of contact for any issues raised.
• Examples of Violations: Title IX violations include sexual harassment, sexual violence, sexism, sexist attitudes, sex stereotyping, and unfair treatment, attitudes, or behaviors towards an individual based on their sex.
• 2024 Legislation Update: As of August 1st, 2024, amendments to Title IX were introduced including expanded definitions of sex discrimination and harassment, and a broader scope of wrongdoing, meaning any incident that affects a student’s access to educational programs, regardless of where it occurs, now falls under Title IX.

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Engagement: Why does it matter?

Engaging students in Title IX education isn't just about compliance – it's about transforming the campus experience. When students truly understand their rights and the resources available to them, they feel safer, more supported, and more connected to their community. This sense of security and belonging can significantly enhance their overall experience and retention. Here’s why investing in engagement is so important:

• Enhanced Awareness: Students become more aware of their rights and the resources available to them, leading to a better understanding of how to seek help and support if needed.
• Increased Reporting: When students are educated about their Title IX rights, they are more likely to report incidents of discrimination and harassment, leading to a safer campus environment.
• Empowerment: Educated students feel empowered to take action against discrimination, be active bystanders, and support their peers in doing the same.
• Community Building: Engaging Title IX education fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility among students, faculty, and staff, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive campus culture.

Now, let’s look at how to engage students on Title IX.

How to Engage Students on Title IX

1. Make Learning Interactive and Relevant

Students are often bombarded with information at college, so it’s not enough to simply share resources with them — HE professionals need to think outside the box, making education interactive, engaging, and relevant to students' lives. Interactive teaching methods can significantly enhance understanding and retention of information, so the information resonates with students. Here are some ideas:

• Keep it Relevant: Tailor the content to reflect the current social climate and issues that students care about. Connect education to real-world scenarios through recent news stories, case studies, and hypothetical situations. This helps students see the practical application of Title IX.
• Keep it Conversational: Use an informal, conversational tone to make the material more approachable and relatable.
• Quizzes and Polls: Use quizzes and polls to gauge understanding and spark interest. These tools can make learning more interactive and fun.

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2. Leverage Digital Tools

Living in the digital age, where 18-24-year-olds use the internet and social media more than any other demographic, failing to leverage technology to engage students is a huge missed opportunity. Traditional, passive education methods, such as lectures and printed materials, struggle to capture and maintain student interest in an age where students are accustomed to interactive and multimedia experiences. The following methods, on the other hand, offer a multitude of innovative ways to engage students in Title IX education, addressing this engagement challenge:

• Online Modules: Utilize online courses and modules that students can complete at their own pace. This flexibility is particularly appealing to busy college students, who are adding training to their already packed to-do list.
• Interactive Videos: Incorporate videos and other interactive elements like quizzes and discussion prompts to maintain engagement.
• Mobile Apps: Use integrated mobile applications that provide on-the-go learning and resources, making it easier for students to access resources and complete modules when they can.

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3. Encourage Student Involvement

Involving students in the Title IX education process can significantly increase their engagement and commitment by making the content more relevant and relatable, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability, and leveraging peer influence for greater credibility. Additionally, student feedback enables continuous improvement of educational strategies, while collaborative efforts build a supportive campus community committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment.

• Peer Education Programs: Universities across the US are finding success in peer-led education programs on Title IX, citing relatability, better conversations, and caring more about the topic as some of the major benefits.
• Student-Led Campaigns: Student voices are significant in shaping a campus culture, with students often being able to influence one another far better than the college can. Supporting and encouraging student-led awareness campaigns and initiatives can raise visibility and foster a sense of ownership among the student body.
• Incorporate Students in Digital Training and Content: Featuring students in digital training materials enhances relevance and engagement by making the content more relatable and authentic, increasing the credibility of the message and creating a stronger connection to Title IX issues.

4. Continuous Engagement and Follow-Up

Continuous engagement and follow-up activities are essential for reinforcing Title IX education by ensuring that key concepts are retained, updating students on new developments, and encouraging sustained active participation and awareness.

• Regular Updates: Provide regular updates on Title IX policies and notable cases. Keeping students informed helps maintain their interest and awareness.
• Follow-Up Sessions: Conduct follow-up sessions to review key concepts and address any questions or concerns students may have. Implementing technology again here, rather than trying to schedule too much in-person time, is effective. 
• Engagement Activities: Organize ongoing activities such as discussion forums, feedback surveys, and reflection exercises to keep the conversation around Title IX alive and relevant.

Conclusion

Engaging students in Title IX education is crucial for making campuses more inclusive and secure.  By utilizing interactive learning methods, integrating technology, encouraging student involvement, and maintaining continuous engagement, educators can significantly enhance the effectiveness of Title IX education. These strategies not only improve the student experience but also contribute to higher retention rates and a stronger campus community. 

Start implementing these strategies to enhance your Title IX education efforts and create a safer, fairer campus.

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From consent and harassment prevention to learning about Title IX, universities trust GoodCourse to provide students and staff with the tools they need to build safer, more inclusive campuses.

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FAQs

Why is student engagement important in Title IX education?

Engaged students are more likely to understand their rights and responsibilities, leading to a safer and more inclusive campus environment.

What are some effective methods to engage students in Title IX education?

Keeping education resources relevant and using a conversational tone, as well as introducing quizzes, real-world scenarios, digital tools, and student involvement are all effective in making Title IX education engaging and relevant.

How can technology be used to enhance Title IX education?

Technology can provide flexible, interactive, and accessible learning options through online modules, interactive videos, and mobile apps, creating higher engagement in students. 

How can educators maintain ongoing awareness of Title IX among students?

Regular updates, follow-up sessions, and continuous engagement activities help maintain ongoing awareness and reinforce Title IX education.