Crucial Conversations in the Classroom Podcast
Introduction to the Series
Crucial Conversations in the Classroom is a podcast series in which the hosts explore strategies for creating inclusive, respectful, and productive discussions in our classrooms.
The episodes give an overview of two teaching workshops held at CTE in October of 2024. Find handouts provided during the workshops included with each episode.
Episode 1 - Fostering a Culture of Listening
This episode centers on active listening as a foundational pedagogical practice. The hosts highlight that listening is not merely a passive activity but an active process that requires intentional effort and skill development.
In this episode, you will hear:
Discussion of the "Straight A's for Crucial Conversations"
This framework offers concrete strategies for promoting active listening in the classroom. Hear about the process of affirming students’ willingness to participate in challenging conversations and acknowledging their perspectives.
Neutral Questions
Encouraging students to ask neutral questions that seek clarification and deeper understanding rather than questions that are loaded with judgment or assumptions. This helps shift the focus from debating opinions to exploring perspectives and underlying reasoning.
Episode 2 - Information Literacy as a Tool for Engagement with Diverse Viewpoints
The second workshop in the series focused on equipping educators with the tools and strategies to help students critically evaluate information sources, particularly in an era of online misinformation and disinformation.
In this episode, you will hear:
Incorporating Information Literacy
To effectively incorporate information literacy, encourage a classroom culture that embraces skepticism and open-mindedness where students critically evaluate sources and consider diverse viewpoints. They discuss Michael Caulfield's book, Verified: How to Think Straight, Get Duped Less, and Make Better Decisions About What to Believe Online, as a guide to navigating online information.
Building Brave Spaces
Creating a "brave space" involves fostering an environment where vulnerability and confusion are accepted as part of the learning process. Encourage students to ask questions and express uncertainty without fear of judgment.
Episode 3 - Bonus Conversation on Election Time
In this bonus episode, recorded just days before the US election, Jane and Sheyda offer timely advice for navigating classroom discussions in the potentially emotionally charged post-election environment. They discuss strategies for acknowledging the election's impact, creating a space for students to process their feelings, and reaffirming community agreements for respectful dialogue.