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Show lessons, Fail 2004 page 11 Catholic. "My own faith has never inflicted tensions in the class/' said Darling. "Religious conflicts do not play a significant role in my classes because I have also chosen to teach classes that don't push religious public controversies." Her goal is to promote critical thinking. Right now, Darling teaches a Communication and Social Behavior class and graduate seminars. Although she does not try to avoid or censor subjects that deal with morals and ethics such as abortion, capital punishment or sexuality rights, these are usually not topics of interest. Darling feels that most students understand the controversial nature of the issues and are more concerned in learning about the topics related to the class. "As a mentor, I need to encourage students to be independent thinkers because they need more challenge by developing their own internal editing function." The only challenge that Darling encounters is linguistic barriers. Indeed, language affects the way individuals express and portray themselves. Darling admits that language is the hardest burden because she must adapt her use of vocabulary constantly so that ideas will not come out offensively. Day after day, she must put her "emergency brakes" on and ask herself, "What language should I use that won't offend my students?" Even though she tries hard not to stereotype based on her own preconceptions and beliefs, she must be conscientious and culture-sensitive while maintain- ing neutrality and accommodating students' needs. Darling believes that "neutrality is developed and achieved from monitoring sense and selves in the classroom." Indeed, remaining neutral in the classroom depends on how well a professor self-monitors and monitors the student's comfort level. Playing devil's advocate is a challenge that not all professors are comfortable with. For the most part, professors attempt to stimulate students' critical thinking skills in order to help them learn about diverse views and balance radical opinions. Although complete objectivity is difficult to achieve, at least students will remember to self-reflect and make more rational and impartial judgments. In the academic arena, professors should facilitate as well as mediate discussions. Regardless of personal convictions and prejudices, it is up to the educator to provide an educational and respectful forum for opinions and discussion. Education will always exist in differing opinions. Nevertheless, students need not feel obligated to choose one opinion over another because it is possible to accept multiple views. Inevitably, everyone will find their beliefs being infringed upon, yet there is always something to be learned from debates. This is the goal of education. Keeping an open mind to new ideas is, without a doubt, the ultimate key to successful learning and effective communication. « Jean-Leon Gerome, French (1824-1904) The Christian Martyrs' Last Prayer |
