Fostering Constructive Engagement With Difficult and Sensitive Topics in Your Teaching and Research Spaces

Workshop Moderator: Candis Watts Smith, Interim Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education

Workshop Speakers: Bruce Jentleson, William Preston Few Distinguished Professor of Public Policy; Deondra Rose, Kevin D. Gorter Associate Professor of Public Policy

Engaging with contentious and difficult topics in the classroom and in various research and learning environments is an essential part of the learning experience. It provides opportunities for deepening understanding of complex issues and learning about different perspectives and approaches, but it can also potentially create dynamics that are not conducive to constructive, rigorous and inclusive dialogue. Faculty must also navigate the tensions and synergies between the values of free inquiry and belonging in their research and learning spaces.

In this interactive workshop, experienced faculty will share strategies and best practices to foster learning environments where such meaningful and constructive dialogues can take place. They will also invite and engage with your questions and thoughts on how to manage challenging conversations and interactions in productive ways that maximize learning and understanding.

Registration Link: https://duke.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0iyxxSD8CYtFP8O