Introduction to the Inclusive Q&A Learning Environment Design

Abstract

This study examines how critical feminist pedagogy can be advanced through a redesigned Artist Q&A in a large undergraduate humanities course. In Introduction to Art with 137 first-year students, Padlet was used to support real-time engagement during a guest lecture by Colombian artist Catalina Alzate, whose work addresses feminism, technology, and social justice. Data included 21 student questions, 76 reflections, and class dialogue. Content analysis showed that students engaged most when discussions connected to personal experience, disciplinary knowledge, or creative practice. The Q&A encouraged inquiry and interdisciplinarity, with students linking feminist perspectives to fields such as agriculture, engineering, and architecture. Padlet expanded opportunities for participation, though contributions remained uneven across the class. The study suggests that combining feminist pedagogy with accessible digital tools can foster inclusive dialogue while also presenting challenges of facilitation, privacy, and access.