Difficult Discussions in Contentious Times

Abstract

The United States is experienced an era of intense political, social, and economic conflict and internationally, challenging conversations around race, gender, religion/culture, etc. are at the forefront: see the global reach of the #MeToo and now #BlackLivesMatter movements and contention around refugees that has spread from refugee-sending countries to refugee-receiving countries including the US, Australia, and Malta.  This session focuses on strategies for how to handle difficult conversations, such as those around race, gender, or immigration in the classroom.   After each panelist briefly shares their strategies and tips, the audience is invited to participate in the roundtable discussion by asking questions and sharing their experiences and strategies.  Participants will be able to list and describe several concrete strategies they can use in class right away.

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FULL ABSTRACT:

The United States is experienced an era of intense political, social, and economic conflict and internationally, challenging conversations around race, gender, religion/culture, etc. are at the forefront: see the global reach of the #MeToo and now #BlackLivesMatter movements and contention around refugees that has spread from refugee-sending countries to refugee-receiving countries including the US, Australia, and Malta.  In this roundtable discussion we will discuss how to handle difficult conversations, such as those around race, gender, or immigration in the classroom.  Dr. Mara Schoeny, Director of the Undergraduate Program at the School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution (SCAR) will discuss difficult subjects that invoke personal, political, and social identities present challenges in the classroom for discussions and assignments that develop critical thinking and reflection. Such discussions can also challenge our own identities as instructors.  When do we get stuck?  What do we do when we feel unprepared or off-balance in a discussion?  How can we cultivate self-awareness, mindfulness and increased capacity for leading difficult conversations in the classroom? Lisa Shaw, Director of Student Services and Field Experience at SCAR will discuss her work using field-based experiences and international study opportunity to connect issues raised in the classroom to those in the larger community.  Sarah Rose-Jensen, PhD Candidate and Graduate Lecturer will discuss using experiential and project-based learning as ways to engage students with subjects which may be challenging or threatening.  After a short presentation by each panelist, we invite the audience to participate with us in this roundtable discussion and share your experiences and strategies as well.  

Educators will hear about practices that work and challenges other have experienced when working with students on challenging issues like race and gender, and how we can work to create classroom space for these discussions.