Utilizing Conflict Management Strategies to Navigate Difficult Classroom Discussions – Faculty Focus

It is not unusual for difficult discussions to arise in the classroom for both students and educators or between students. These discussions may be because of conflicting views, controversial topics, heightened emotions, and different experiences. This conflict situation cannot be avoided, ignored, or suppressed. Instead, the educator should leverage the opportunity and use the situation as a valuable time for learning and growth. Many students have different world views, and it is a good time for educators to take advantage of this opportunity to engage students in discussing complex topics. Challenging topics might be unpredictable to discuss in the classroom; however, creating the proper environment for these discussions can be gratifying, create self-awareness, improve thoughts, expand understanding and knowledge, and provide an avenue for collecting information. If you are thinking of having a complex discussion in your classroom, here are some strategies that are a good starting point. 

Set the Ground Rules

Setting ground rules is necessary before beginning to have difficult discussions (“Facilitating challenging conversations,” n.d). The students need to know what they should and should not say, how to address each other, no name calling or vulgar language, no interruptions, and so on. When these rules and norms have been communicated, the discussion can begin. 

Acknowledge the Importance of Conflict:

It is essential to acknowledge conflict. Since it is an innate part of human interaction, it can catalyze critical thinking and profound understanding. If conflicts are managed correctly, the conflict can foster empathy, enhance learning outcomes, effective communication, and develop problem-solving skills. 

Teach Conflict Resolution Skills

As educators, we play an essential role in preparing students with the skills necessary to navigate conflict effectively. Conflict resolution techniques should be incorporated in each course. Techniques such as empathy-building, problem-solving, and active listening can be your building blocks. These techniques can empower the students to express their viewpoints without fear and intimidation, to engage in meaningful discussions, and to find common ground. 

Practice Active Listening

Active listening is one of the most effective skills in conflict resolution. The use of “AMPP” by Peterson, Greeny, McMillan, and Switzler (2005) provides an excellent road to follow when faced with a difficult situation.  

• Ask the other person to begin the conversation 
• Mirroring encourages the person to provide more information or to continue speaking 
• Paraphrasing allows you to restate what the other person has said to show you are actively listening 
• Prime is used to prime the speaker to speak when they are emotional  

Another acronym is VALUED, created by Runde and Flanagan (2010).  

• Validated 
• Asking (open-ended questions) 
• Listening (to test assumptions) 
• Uncovering interests 
• Explores options 
• Decides (on solution) 

Use Conflict Resolution Techniques

If the discussion is a difficult conversation, prepare to use conflict resolution techniques like active listening, collaboration, compromise, and problem-solving to assist the students in navigating the discussion. Another step is establishing shared rules and norms to be followed and reinforcing them (Sedlovskaya, 2020). You can use these conflict resolution techniques to resolve disagreements of opinions and constructively resolve any conflict.

There may be times that the discussion can be unproductive and intense. As the educator, you should assume the mediator role to navigate the discussion to a constructive conclusion. Or on the alternative, you can appoint another student who is impartial and open-minded to assume the mediator role. This student can be seen as an equal and a peer by other students; however, be prepared to step in should the discussion veer in the wrong direction. Mediation encourages open dialogue, active listening, and reframing thoughts and arguments that focus on interests and common goals. This approach can assist students to understand different viewpoints and work collaboratively. 

I have used these strategies many times when discussing controversial topics. As the instructor, you should have an open and unbiased mind to be an effective facilitator and mediator. You want the students to see you as the objective person in the classroom because they look you for guidance. These strategies will help you when you decide to undertake a complex discussion in your classroom. Remember that feeling uncomfortable and doubtful is part of the discussion process. However, when you approach the discussion in a respectful, empathetic, and appreciative manner, you will create a safe space for your students to have a growth mindset. Difficult discussions in the classroom may be difficult, but they create an opportunity for growth and learning for both the educator and students. Embracing conflict and implementing effective strategies can create an inclusive and safe learning environment. Students can better prepare and develop personally and professionally from these experiences.  

George Ojie-Ahamiojie, EdD, is an associate professor in the hospitality and tourism management program at University of Maryland Eastern Shore. He is the author of Essential Leadership Skills for Hospitality Supervisors: An Experiential Approach and Upward Mobility: Interviewing and Career Management.