Handling Difficult Conversations
Channel: Ideas(s) Lab
Date: 2023-02-26

This case study video explores the various ways professors can navigate potential discomfort from their students when incorporating social issues into their undergraduate mathematics and computer sciences lessons.

Mathematics and computer science classes provide a powerful learning opportunity to integrate these issues due to the wealth of available data and their real-world impact. Furthermore, students taking these courses often come from STEM streams and are typically not exposed to relevant social issues in the classroom. While students can become more knowledgeable through having these conversations, there is also potential for conflict and discomfort. 

This case study depicts an example where a student makes an unwarranted and misinformed comment about homelessness, making another student uncomfortable. Some strategies suggested to mitigate these situations include notifying students in advance about the sensitive nature of the material, being prepared with resources that are available for students, and debriefing with students after the lesson to allow them to reflect on their current state of mind. Due to the sensitive nature of social issues, it is crucial to approach these lessons with empathy and care while still highlighting the learning of mathematical concepts.