Effective discussions should promote critical thinking, active engagement, and a deeper understanding of the subject matter. By creating a accessible, supportive environment and implementing these strategies, you can maximize the benefits of discussions in your college class.

• Begin by setting clear expectations for the discussion. Let students know the objectives, guidelines for participation, and any assessment criteria (try a rubric for consistency). When students understand what is expected of them, it can lead to more focused and meaningful contributions.
• Craft discussion prompts that are open-ended and thought-provoking. These prompts should encourage critical thinking and stimulate discussion rather than elicit simple answers. Relate the prompts to course content and learning objectives.
• Encourage students to share different viewpoints and experiences. Acknowledge and value different perspectives and facilitate discussions that explore various angles of a topic. This can lead to richer, more comprehensive discussions.
• Act as a facilitator rather than a lecturer during discussions. Intervene when necessary to keep the conversation on track, clarify points, and guide students toward deeper exploration of the topic. Consider asking questions to engage students based on their contributions in the discussion. Avoid dominating the discussion or stifling student contributions.
• Incorporate technology and online discussion platforms like Padlet to facilitate discussions both in and outside the classroom. These platforms can allow for more structured and organized conversations, as well as asynchronous participation.

Difficult discussions in college classes can be opportunities for critical thinking and learning about diverse perspectives. By setting a positive tone, maintaining objectivity, and providing support, you can create an environment where students can engage with complex and controversial subjects in a productive and respectful manner. Here are five tips to help you manage and facilitate these discussions effectively: 

• Begin by setting ground rules for respectful and constructive communication. Emphasize the importance of active listening, empathy, and the use of evidence to support arguments. Clearly state that personal attacks or offensive language will not be tolerated.
• Foster a positive and safe space where all students feel comfortable expressing their opinions, even if they differ from the majority. Encourage students to share their perspectives and experiences while respecting diverse viewpoints.
• As the instructor, maintain a neutral and objective stance during difficult discussions. Avoid expressing your own personal biases, and instead, guide the conversation toward critical analysis and evidence-based reasoning.
• When discussions become heated or unproductive, use redirection and reframing techniques to steer the conversation back on track. Ask clarifying questions, encourage students to consider alternative viewpoints, and emphasize the importance of evidence and logic.
• Offer additional resources, readings, or materials to help students better understand the topic or context of the discussion. Encourage students to conduct further research and share their findings. Additionally, be available for one-on-one discussions with students who may need additional support or clarification.