WHAT we teach in classroom is HOW we could treat others in democratic way

• In Event: 20461 - Teaching and Learning Symposium Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 6: Teaching Ideas

Abstract

One of my main concerns as an instructor in sociology is creating a safe and connected environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, particularly when discussing systemic and structural inequalities and how they can be challenged through everyday actions. It’s essential not only to understand the mechanisms that perpetuate these systems but also to foster a collective voice that recognizes personal experiences as political. This helps students see that change requires more than awareness—it demands action.

To ensure students feel at ease expressing themselves, I use several strategies, particularly in smaller class discussions (under 25 students). First, I break the class into small groups of five to discuss a topic, encouraging them to reflect on their personal experiences. Afterward, we expand the discussion to the larger group, with the desks rearranged to create a more inclusive atmosphere. I sit among the students to avoid projecting an authority figure who dictates what is correct, while still guiding the conversation.

I also ask students to reflect on what they’ve heard from their peers, which encourages active listening and reduces the fear of speaking up. I stress that there is no judgment or criticism—only further questions and the introduction of alternative perspectives. This method helps students challenge their own thinking and deepen their understanding through self-reflecting process which I believe it becomes more important in the A.I. generation. For example, instead of criticizing, I might ask, “What led you to think this way?” This allows students to explain their reasoning, which offers insights into their thought processes and highlights areas where they can think differently.

Ultimately, my goal is to create a space where we, as educators, share ideas for building a more egalitarian and horizontal society, starting with the dynamics of our classroom.

Author

• Hyeonseo Lee, SUNY-Binghamton