Because of this, I will be forced to flesh out many core ideas of the primary text and some outside material in a lecture format. These ideas will be solidified with question and answer exchanges with you, and further reinforced through discussions based on readings from the secondary text. Ultimately, it is the students' responsibility to bring these ideas to life in classroom conversations, debates, and small group activities. The classroom should be a place where everyone feels comfortable expressing opinions, raising questions, and dealing with issues. Producing this atmosphere requires that all of us come inside the doors with an open mind.
Some material is controversial and challenging.
When this information is presented, successful students take time to evaluate information and questions before speaking. This pause for poise will make sure that reactions to statements are academic responses to academic issues, rather than dogmatically charged responses to personal issues. Insults and petty bickering are counterproductive to academic growth, debates and discussions that are well-informed and thoughtful produce new and exciting ideas for all of us to consider. The key to thoughtful evaluation is keeping on top of the assigned readings. If you address all required readings in a timely manner, classroom discussions will be well-reasoned, thoughtful intellectual exchanges.