Discussing Racial Topics in Class [microform] / John F. Noonan

It is difficult to think of any subject more conspicuous by its absence from the college classroom than the discussion of racial issues. Factors contributing to this absence include uncertainty about how to raise and discuss such issues and fear of appearing to be racist. In order to break higher education's silence on racial issues, faculty should: (1) communicate their uncertainty to students and invite them to convey theirs; (2) acknowledge their ambivalence about raising provocative issues; (3) listen without judging; (4) allow time for students to compose their thoughts; (5) invite students to evaluate the underlying assumptions in their statements; (6) maintain the examination of differing viewpoints as a top priority; (7) reduce the fear whites have of being seen as racists; (8) acknowledge the legitimacy of anger; (9) examine the belief that only blacks are hurt by racism; and (10) help students recognize the unique strengths that blacks have developed. (DC)