Sponsored by the Office of the Provost and the Office of Faculty Advancement

Event Overview

Join Dr. Aysegul Keskin Zeren for an interactive workshop on how to create and sustain a civil classroom environment.The first session equips faculty and postdoctoral scholars with practical, immediately applicable tools to foster respectful, inclusive, and engaging classroom dialogue. Participants will explore the foundational elements of civil discourse, including setting shared norms, establishing psychological safety, and modeling respectful communication. The session will also introduce proactive prevention strategies for maintaining a dialogic learning environment, along with core active listening skills that support understanding, empathy, and productive exchange among students. This workshop is part of the Enhancing Civility & Connection initiative designed to encourage open, thoughtful dialogue across campus. This workshop is intended for faculty and those with teaching roles.

Overall Learning Experience

Through sustained dialogue models, interactive role-plays, and practical scenarios, participants will develop the skills and confidence to create classroom environments where open, thoughtful, and meaningful conversations can thrive even around complex or sensitive topics.

About the Speaker

Dr. Aysegul Keskin Zeren, Ph.D. works with students interested in public service and healthcare careers and assists exploratory students in finding their professional paths. She is passionate about guiding students who are in the process of discovering their interests and career goals. Aysegul also works as an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Political Science department, teaching conflict resolution and human rights courses. She has more than a decade long experience working as an instructor in communication skills, empathy, and conflict resolution methods such as negotiation and mediation, as well as conflict coaching. Throughout her career, Aysegul has been a supportive mentor, offering guidance to undergraduate and graduate students, non-profit professionals, and community leaders on diverse academic and career choices. Aysegul holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from Kent State University and M.A. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from Sabanci University in Turkiye.

Creating a Civil Classroom: Faculty Resources

While classroom disruptions are uncommon, they can be challenging when they arise. This page brings together resources to help faculty respond constructively, with quick access to best practices and university guidance. Developed as part of the Enhancing Civility & Connection initiative, these materials offer practical strategies and answers to frequently asked questions about maintaining engagement, safety, and mutual respect in the classroom.

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Co-hosted with: Office of the Provost

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