In a large lecture class on early British literature, Professor Ayanna Thompson noticed a shift in the room when the topic of race was brought up while studying Othello. This experience led her to realize that many students had never had the opportunity to openly discuss race in an educational setting.
The current political climate and backlash against critical race theory have made discussing race and racism in classrooms a challenging feat. However, research shows that students are eager to engage in conversations about complex social issues that feel relevant to their lives. This presents a unique opportunity for educators to incorporate discussions about race in unexpected places, such as pre-modern studies classrooms.
Many educators, like Professor Thompson, may not have received training on how to effectively discuss race in the classroom. By acknowledging this lack of expertise and creating a safe space for dialogue, students can feel more comfortable engaging in conversations about race without fear of judgment.
Professor Thompson outlines four imperatives for discussing race in the classroom:
1. Acknowledge the discomfort and unfamiliarity of discussing race openly.
2. Emphasize the unique nature of the educational setting as a place for experimentation and growth.
3. Clarify that educators do not need to be experts on race, but rather facilitators of conversation.
4. Highlight the opportunity for students to engage with complex issues in pre-modern studies classrooms beyond the literary texts they are studying.
Throughlines, a forthcoming pedagogical resource platform, aims to provide educators with the tools and materials necessary to navigate discussions about race in premodern studies classrooms. This free and open-access resource includes lectures, syllabi, discussion models, and more to support educators in fostering meaningful conversations about race in higher education settings.
As educators prepare to utilize Throughlines in their classrooms, they can look forward to creating an environment where students feel empowered to explore and challenge their perspectives on race and racial difference. By incorporating discussions about race into pre-modern studies classrooms, educators can help students develop critical thinking skills and engage with complex issues in a thoughtful and nuanced manner.
Throughlines is set to launch publicly on August 1, 2024, offering educators a valuable resource to enhance their teaching practices and promote inclusive discussions about race in the classroom.