## Start a conversation with the class

Many teachers are reluctant to discuss difficult subjects in class. Students sometimes express alarming opinions about current events and are overly inclined to spread conspiracy theories. However difficult it may be, it is important to talk about these things – with the class as a whole and with individual students.

####

#### With the class

When you talk about controversial issues with your class, it is important to think about how to communicate with young people. Your aim should be to stimulate dialogue, not to dominate the conversation. You might be tempted to debate with your students, but then you run the risk of giving too much weight to winning the argument and too little to the substance of the issue.

#### Difference between a dialogue and a debate​

The table below lists the main differences between a dialogue and a debate:

#### Tips

Do you sometimes find it difficult to discuss controversial issues with students in a classroom situation? ROC TOP regional training centre and Halima Maakoul, a teacher at Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, have the following tips and guidelines for you:

Tips for conducting 'difficult conversations' in the classroom

Tips for dealing with controversial topics in the classroom