Dear colleagues,

At our leadership meeting last week, we discussed the importance of recognizing controversial nature of classroom discussions and the need for faculty to have some strategies to handle such discussions. Faculty can help foster a respectful and inclusive environment in the classroom, even when students introduce controversial or unpopular viewpoints. Here are some suggestions for encouraging meaningful dialogue:

Acknowledge diverse opinions: You can validate a student’s perspective and contribution to the discussion whether you agree with them or not, demonstrating that diverse viewpoints are welcome and encouraging expression.

Encourage respectful discourse: Remind students to engage with different viewpoints thoughtfully and respectfully, and model that behavior.

Foster critical thinking: Use the moment as an opportunity to encourage critical thinking. Ask follow-up questions that encourage students to explore the rationale behind the opinion, consider evidence, and weigh different perspectives.

Balance the discussion: If the opinion shared is extreme or polarizing, you can bring in counterpoints or ask the class to offer up alternative perspectives.

Reinforce learning objectives: Frame the discussion within the context of the learning objectives of the course. Maintain focus on the academic goals of the discussion.

Provide a space for dialogue and inquiry: Reinforce that the classroom is a space where it’s okay to explore and challenge ideas, and that agreement isn’t necessarily the goal.

Address offensive or harmful opinions appropriately: If the opinion shared is potentially harmful or offensive to other students, address the content respectfully but firmly. You can challenge the idea and redirect the discussion without attacking the student.

Facilitate reflective moments: After a contentious discussion, it can be helpful to provide students a structured opportunity to reflect on the conversation and whether it challenged or affirmed their point of view.

These suggestions highlight the need to value diverse opinions, promote critical thinking, and keep conversations aligned with your course's academic goals – all while ensuring that every student feels safe and respected. Our LEADS 2025 values include both "Diversity & Inclusion" and "Student-Centered." We are NMSU.

Lakshmi N. Reddi
Interim Provost
New Mexico State University