What is it?

Classrooms are spaces where students are exposed to and discuss controversial topics. Teaching inclusively means being prepared to respond to and address the microaggressions that may occur during the discussion of such topics and in class, in general. With effective facilitation, the discussion of controversial issues can foster the development of critical, analytical, and metacognitive thinking skills (Howard, 2019).

How do I use it?

Structure discussion. Adapt the guidelines for discussing difficult or high-stakes topicsLinks to an external site. (University of Michigan Center for Research in Learning and Teaching).
Be prepared to interrupt and manage microaggressionsLinks to an external site. (Hogan & Sathy, 2022, chapter 5, pp. 149-152).
Apply the principles for facilitating hot momentsLinks to an external site. (University of Michigan Center for Research in Learning and Teaching).
Use Deescalation Skills - LARALinks to an external site. and Elicitation Skills – OARSLinks to an external site. guides to facilitate and manage controversial discussions (Oregon State University Office of Institutional Diversity).