Managing difficult classroom Conversations Workshop

Teaching controversial subjects is an inherent part of some courses and disciplines. However, any course, particularly those dealing with current events, presents an opportunity for socially challenging or politically charged topics, such as race, culture, gender, disability and sexual orientation, to arise spontaneously in class or one-on-one discussions. Classroom discussion on difficult issues is a perennial challenge, even when planned. Part of the challenge lies in the fact that we never fully know which topics will be "hot buttons" for our students. Conversations can become heated very quickly, and before long, it can feel like the class is careening out of control. This workshop seeks to her educators and others working with students feel more confident leading difficult dialogues or responding 'in the moment' in the classroom or one-on-one. Applying a reflexive framework, participants will gain insights, strategies and resources to engage in productive conversations beneficial to their instructional goals and potentiate a safer space and positive dynamics in the classroom.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Use reflexivity to support their teaching praxis.
• Identify and discuss strategies for facilitating and de-escalating difficult conversations in various contexts.