Office of the Provost
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Faculty Support and Resources for Classroom Management During Moments of Crisis

October 12, 2023

Dear Colleagues,

As we continue to grapple with the tragic events unfolding in Israel and Gaza, we may find ourselves struggling to process our many emotional reactions while managing our classrooms.

We have been hearing from students who are shaken by the tragic events unfolding, and know that feelings of uncertainty, fear, anger, frustration, and more might surface in the classroom. Many faculty and professional staff are also affected directly or indirectly. As such, we wanted to use this opportunity to share some resources and evidence-based strategies for addressing emotionally charged situations in the moment.

Responding to Hot Moments in the Classroom

  • De-escalate the situation, if possible (e.g., by speaking calmly, staying neutral); 
  • Use probing questions to allow for self-correction or clarification (e.g., Could you explain what you meant by that…?);
  • Invite other students to respond, take a quick poll, pause for a quick-write; 
  • Remind students of, or establish, class discussion ground rules;
  • Help students process their emotions by focusing on how someone’s actions made them feel (e.g., I am uncomfortable with what you said) rather than assuming intent behind the actions;
  • If you feel unprepared or personally triggered, you might want to table the discussion and address it in the next class, after connecting with your own support network and explore these emotional well-being resources for Drexel employees;
  • Talk to students outside of class as needed to help them navigate or learn from the experience;
  • Refer students to campus resources including the Office for Institutional Equity and Inclusive Culture (EIC), Student Life, and the Counseling Center;
  • View more tips for “Making the Most of ‘Hot Moments’ in the Classroom” in this resource from the University of Michigan.

If you would like to discuss additional strategies for responding to hot moments in the classroom, please contact the Drexel Teaching and Learning Center. If you have any additional questions and concerns about conflict management in the classroom or other academic environments, please contact the Vice Provost for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. For specific questions about Spiritual and Religious Life, including accommodations, please contact the Office for Institutional Equity and Inclusive Culture (EIC).

We are here to support you as we all work towards creating an inclusive and safe environment for our students, especially during difficult times.

Thank you for your dedication and commitment.

Kimberly J. Gholston
Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer

Leslie Ashburn-Nardo
Vice Provost for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Johanna Inman
Director, Teaching and Learning Center