Navigating Challenging Moments

Student diversity—across visible identities (e.g., gender, race) and less visible ones (e.g., sexual orientation, socio‑economic status, political and religious affiliation, physical or mental disability, veteran status)—can greatly enrich learning. It can also create moments that are complex, emotional, or uncomfortable.

This section highlights common missteps related to student identity and offers practical strategies and language for discussing sensitive topics so that students can explore their own values and those of others.

Common Missteps Around Student Identity

Laying the Groundwork for Sensitive Topics

Being able to discuss sensitive topics is crucial for developing students’ leadership capabilities. Instructors can help by:

• Setting expectations for respectful, rigorous discussion at the start of the course

• Revisiting these expectations during the term as needed

• Providing practice in:

  • Framing arguments

  • Listening attentively

  • Articulating responses

  • Exercising judgment when values collide

In your course introduction, you might invite students to raise sensitive issues and concerns, and encourage the class to approach these topics with curiosity, candor, and respect.

For sample wording you can use directly, download the “Managing Challenging Moments” tip sheet.

Discussing Sensitive Topics: Before, During, and After Class

For example, calling on a French student for the French or European perspective on an issue.