Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education (Sep 2021)

Facilitating Constructive Discussions of Difficult Socio-Scientific Issues

  • Gregory R. Goldsmith,
  • Brenna M. G. Gormally,
  • Rebecca M. Green,
  • Aaron W. Harrison,
  • Brian A. Hoover,
  • Kenjiro W. Quides,
  • Zachary Thammavongsy,
  • Shana R. Welles,
  • Bingjie Zhang,
  • Kelsey M. Gray

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1128/jmbe.00153-21
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 22, no. 2

Abstract

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ABSTRACT Discussion can be an important and powerful tool in efforts to build a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive future for STEM (i.e., science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). However, facilitating discussions on difficult, complex, and often uncomfortable issues, like racism and sexism, can feel daunting. We outline a series of steps that can be used by educators to facilitate productive discussions that empower everyone to listen, contribute, learn, and ultimately act to transform STEM.

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