Strategies to Prevent and Reduce Conflict in College Classrooms

• Published in: College teaching Vol. 51; no. 3; pp. 94 - 98
• Main Author: Meyers, Steven A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Washington Taylor & Francis Group 01-08-2003; Heldref Publications; Taylor & Francis Inc
• Subjects: Active learning; Behavior; Behavioral Objectives; Classroom Communication; Classroom Environment; Classroom management; Classroom Techniques; Classrooms; College instruction; Conflict; Conflict management; Conflict resolution; Course Content; Educational Needs; Emotional expression; Empathy; Enthusiasm; Higher Education; Learning; learning experience; Learning Strategies; Lectures; Objectives; Prevention; Resistance to control; Student Behavior; Students; Teacher Student Relationship; Teachers; Teaching; Teaching Methods; Thinking Skills; United States > US; San Francisco California
• ISSN: 8756-7555; 1930-8299
• DOI: 10.1080/87567550309596419

Faculty members are often unprepared to effectively handle classroom conflict, which may be distressing and disruptive. A range of techniques are presented that faculty can use to help prevent the development of negative emotions and conflict in their classes. Recommendations include communicating warmth and sensitivity toward students by remaining enthusiastic and available, establishing a shared course framework by determining course objectives and seeking students' input, and helping students develop relationships in class through interactive teaching. These suggestions, and others, are discussed in detail.