Maximizing Your Effectiveness in Difficult Conversations for Student Learning and Well-Being

Event Date & Time

Event Description

Have you wondered just what to say in those split-second awkward moments in the classroom?—When you’ve just witnessed something disconcerting about racism, homophobia, or another conflicting bias? Or perhaps when you have been challenged for inadvertently saying something inappropriate? A negative classroom moment not only affects students’ ability to learn but can also have an impact on their well-being. This workshop invites faculty, instructors, and TAs to discuss difficult classroom situations, their responsibilities, and possible strategies to respond. As a collaboration between three units across campus – Equity and Inclusion, Student Development and Services, and the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Technology, facilitators will introduce frameworks, language, and tools you can draw on to better identify and respond to concerning situations with students inside the classroom.

Facilitators:

Rachael E. Sullivan, Equity and Inclusion Educator, and instructor in the Sociology Department. Additionally, Rachael has participated in a variety of service activities including coordinating the inaugural Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in January 2010 under the direction of the Dean of Arts. Additionally, Rachael was employed as an office assistant for the CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees) Local 2950 while she completed her PhD. Outside of UBC, Rachael enjoys yoga, hiking and traveling.

Patty Hambler has a background in adult education and health promotion and is the Associate Director, Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects in Student Development and Services. Patty’s current work at UBC supports the development of our student mental health and wellbeing strategy and related initiatives.

Hanae Tsukada is a Classroom Climate and Educational Resource Developer at the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Technology at UBC. She develops resources and programs to create productive classroom environments, particularly in teaching and discussing socially and politically sensitive issues.