Trauma-Informed Pedagogy in Post-Secondary Education: Creating Safer, Relational, and Inclusive Learning Environments - October 2026

IMPORTANT NOTES:
This is for KPU faculty.|
This workshop takes place over 2 half-day sessions, where the 2nd session builds upon the 1st. 

Facilitator: Alana Abramson

Oct 20 and Oct 27, 1-4pm, online, Zoom

Description

This workshop introduces faculty to the principles and practices of trauma-informed pedagogy within post-secondary education. As increasing numbers of students navigate trauma, mental health concerns, systemic inequities, discrimination, displacement, grief, and chronic stress, educators are being called to create learning environments that foster safety, connection, flexibility, and belonging while maintaining academic integrity and accountability. 

Grounded in neuroscience, relational practice, cultural responsivity, and student-centered learning, this course explores how trauma can impact cognition, behaviour, communication, attendance, participation, and academic performance. Participants will examine the role post-secondary institutions can play in either reducing or unintentionally reinforcing stress and retraumatization within educational spaces. 

Through reflective dialogue and practical strategies, participants will develop tools for responding to students with empathy, consistency, and clear boundaries while supporting engagement, resilience, and success. The course also explores educator well-being, vicarious trauma, and the importance of creating sustainable and relational teaching practices 

Facilitator: Alana Abramson has been teaching in the Criminology department for KPU for the last 20 years and has been involved as a researcher, trainer and practitioner of restorative justice since 1999. Her doctoral work focused on restorative justice and post-secondary educational settings, and she is passionate about finding innovative, meaningful, and relational ways to enhance the lives of students and faculty. 

Through engaging in this workshop, you will have the opportunity to:  

1. Examine trauma and its effects, and how trauma may shape the responses of students 

2. Analyze the principles and strategies of trauma informed pedagogy 

3. Discuss various approaches to trauma informed teaching and learning 

4. Review strategies for preventing secondary/vicarious trauma and promoting instructor wellness