Navigating Conflict in the Classroom

When we ask students to take intellectual risks, challenge assumptions, and engage in meaningful classroom conversations, difficult moments can arise. This one-hour virtual workshop for faculty focuses on practical strategies for responding to “hot moments” in real time. 

While faculty participants will be connected to resources about building discussion norms and psychological safety, the majority of the session will focus on recognizing escalation and determining how to respond. Together, we’ll discuss how to actively listen for students’ underlying values and concerns, and how we might distinguish between situations that call for redirection, immediate intervention, or follow-up. Finally, participants will learn about campus resources for supporting faculty and students before, during, after challenging interactions.

This workshop is part of ongoing collaborations between the Center for Teaching Innovation, Center for Civic Engagement, and campus partners to support faculty, staff, and students in engaging in meaningful, curious conversations with one another. Stay turned for more upcoming programming this academic year, including a year-long Faculty Professional Learning Community.