How do we talk about issues that matter?

The issues that matter tend to be topics that are the hardest to navigate and to teach. Some people avoid them altogether and some don't have the skills/ tools to create a discussion or lesson, and do so safely. In order to talk about issues that matter, we must be able to express ideas or even opinions that are sensitive, in a way that all involved in the discussion feel included, heard and respected. 

When talking about issues that matter, we must first consider all the students or people involved in the discussion, and ensure that we are creating a space where trust and respect are the most basics of the foundation upon which the discussion is created. One way to do this is to use an empathetic approach, or to consider the lesson or discussion from each of your students' perspectives. As the teacher, this will help us to be prepared in keeping the discussion civil/ safe for everyone.

I think drama based instruction/ game facilitation is an excellent way to create a fun learning environment for teaching issues that matter. It allows the students to share their opinions on a tense topic in a more relaxed environment, to feel included, and allows for a leveled playing field between the teacher/ facilitator and students. All of this creates a more trusting environment, which is crucial to these discussions.

Lastly, but most importantly, we need to ensure we fully understand these difficult lessons, have researched them to the best of our ability, and can apply them or relate them to every day life.