Create a Safe Classroom for Courageous Conversations

Students need to know how to have difficult conversations in order to advocate for themselves in all aspects of their lives. But how do they learn it? Ming Shelby says teachers can help by creating an atmosphere where students have the courage to raise difficult classroom-related issues. The biggest hurdle to overcome is the power imbalance between student and teacher. She suggests three steps to bring that relationship into balance.

First, create a safe learning environment where students feel they’re cared for and like they belong. Make an effort to get to know them and greet them every day as they enter the classroom. It will create a safe place to take risks.

The second step is to model courageous behavior. Create a collaborative culture where the students are involved in solving problems. Demonstrate that you take what they have to say seriously and take time to think through your responses to students, even if that means coming back to the topic later.

Finally, seek feedback from students. It shows students “that we value learning through their eyes, because when they are bold enough and brave enough to tell us what they need, that's when their learning will flourish.”