BookBytes: A Pedagogy of Kindness
October 27, 2026 / Digital Learning / Tags: Book Bytes, Digital Learning
What is the topic?
A Pedagogy of Kindness by Catherine J. Denial challenges the idea that higher education must be driven by competition, rigor, and gatekeeping. Instead, Denial argues that effective teaching is grounded in kindness, which she defines not as being “nice,” but as intentionally creating learning environments built on respect, trust, justice, and compassion. The book encourages educators to support both student success and their own well-being, demonstrating how kindness can improve learning while fostering belonging and engagement.
Why is the topic important?
This book is important because kindness is directly connected to student success. When students feel respected, supported, and that they belong, they are more likely to engage, persist, and achieve their learning goals. Catherine J. Denial shows that kindness doesn't reduce rigor; it helps students thrive and perform at their best.
This message is especially relevant in online learning environments, where students can easily feel isolated or disconnected. Thoughtful course design, clear communication, and a supportive instructor presence can foster connection and belonging, helping online learners stay engaged and succeed.
Who can use this information?
Although written for higher education faculty, this book offers valuable insights for anyone who supports student learning, including instructional designers, advisors, and academic leaders. Its principles are particularly relevant for online educators seeking to foster connection, engagement, and student success in digital learning environments.
Top three takeaways
1. Kindness is not Niceness
Denial makes a clear distinction between kindness and simply being nice. Kindness is an intentional commitment to justice, respect, and supporting student learning, even when difficult conversations or decisions are required. Niceness, on the other hand, can sometimes avoid conflict or maintain the status quo.
Examples from the book:
• Holding students to high expectations while providing the support they need to meet them.
• Building policies based on trust rather than assuming students are looking for ways to cheat or take advantage of instructors.
• Recognizing students as whole people with complex lives and responsibilities outside the classroom.
2. Your syllabus as an “Instrument of Kindness” vs a legal document
Denial argues that the syllabus should serve as an invitation to learning rather than a legal contract filled with warnings, penalties, and restrictive language. The syllabus is often a student's first impression of a course and can establish a tone of trust and belonging.
Examples from the book:
• Replacing punitive language with welcoming, student-centered language.
• Explaining not only course policies but also the rationale behind them.
• Inviting student input on aspects of the course when appropriate
3. Kindness and Assessment
Denial encourages faculty to view assessment as a tool for learning rather than primarily a mechanism for sorting, ranking, or penalizing students. Kind assessment practices focus on helping students improve and demonstrate mastery.
Examples from the book:
• Providing meaningful, actionable feedback that helps students grow.
• Allowing opportunities for revision and improvement when learning is still taking place.
• Being transparent about grading criteria so students understand expectations and pathways to success.
Closing
Reading A Pedagogy of Kindness reminded me that great teaching is not just about delivering content. It's about creating the conditions for learning. Whether through syllabi, assessments, or everyday interactions with students, small acts of kindness can have a significant impact on student success. Catherine J. Denial reminds us that rigor and compassion are not competing values; they work best together.
