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Show page 6 lessons, Fail 2004 environment for discussion. Dr. Goodman, visiting associate professor in the sociology department, believes, "[The classroom] atmosphere is one of the academy." In other words, the classroom is a place for students to report what they have learned; it is not a soapbox for opinion. Students are always encouraged to critically analyze course material and use the text to support their comments. She calls it, "putting on an academic hat. Looking at the facts through the academy." Goodman challenges students to look at what the experts say and then use that text to support ideas or comments. Jackie Osherow, associate professor in English, also believes students must pull from the text to backup their ideas in order to maintain an academic atmosphere in the classroom. Osherow emphasized, "back it up." If students speak without support or text to back up their statements, they are more likely to offend their peers. Osherow wants students to use the words, not personal beliefs to foster classroom discussion. Goodman and Osherow believe the atmosphere is less threatening when students are encouraged to use literature for support, rather than their own beliefs or values. Professors' willingness to work with students' beliefs and opinions reduces anxiety and allows our university to be a place where students feel comfortable. The majority of professors express willingness to work with students with particular religious needs such as allowing excused absences for religious holidays or respecting students desires to not watch or read material that is offensive because of religious beliefs. Religious holidays are a source of tension for some students. The current school calendar does not include release for many non-Christian holidays. Ted Wilson said, "[You must] honor those kinds of things." It is a University of Utah policy to excuse absences for religious reasons. But, it is also important for students to understand they are still expected to make up missed assignments. Wilson was always willing to have lecture notes available for his students and make himself available for questions and follow-up. Jackie Osherow expressed willingness to tape her class. Calhoun similarly is willing to allow absences for personal reasons. She allows students three absences a semester that need no explanation. She believes this policy respects the private aspect of religious identities. Religious beliefs can affect a student's class participation. Some films, literature and even the nature of the class can offend students. Jackie Osherow teaches a class focusing on the Torah as literature. She recognizes that the very nature of the class seems irreverent to some. She believes that clear communication is vital. She advises professors to, "make it clear on the first day your expectations of the class. Then there aren't any surprises." She emphasizes that she is teaching literature, not religion. Lindsay Calhoun also understands that some discussion and material in class isn't consistent with every student's beliefs. She provides forewarning and an outlet for the students to excuse themselves and will not penalize a student if they choose not to participate. One component in respecting religious needs in the classroom is the emphasis that students must speak out. If faculty is unaware of a need or concern, they cannot respond to it. Dr. Goodman is willing to work with students on an individual case-by-case basis, but they must be willing to communicate their concerns. Most professors are willing to respond and pay attention to these concerns, but they cannot provide this service unless they are aware of that need. Professors should encourage students to come to them if they have religious needs or concerns. Religion is a difficult issue. Professors try to treat it with sensitivity and care by creating a safe environment, encouraging thoughtful comments, and allowing room for difference of opinion. It is also important to remember that great minds often disagree. Osherow cited the example of two accomplished literary critics, one from Yale, another from Harvard. "They both can interpret the same piece of literature differently. In the end, not everyone is going to agree. Keep this in mind." The world is filled with controversy and differences of religious thought, but the classroom can be the greatest learning ground for negotiation and the management of differences. « Students informally debate, discuss, and learn from their differences. |
