Can We Disagree and Still Belong? Navigating Classroom Conflict

Conflict in the classroom is both natural and unavoidable, but for many faculty, it feels disruptive, draining, or even threatening to the sense of community they want to build. Conversations around identity, difference, and power can be particularly challenging, often leaving instructors unsure how to respond without escalating tension or causing harm. Left unaddressed, these moments can fracture trust, silence voices, and undermine the inclusive learning environment students need to thrive.

In this 20-Minute Mentor, Nimisha Barton, PhD, Lecturer at Cal State Long Beach, reframes conflict as an opportunity for growth and provides faculty with practical tools to navigate it productively. Drawing on restorative justice principles, Dr. Barton shares concrete communication strategies—including nonviolent communication protocols and acknowledge–repair–restore practices—that help turn difficult moments into pathways for deeper understanding. You’ll also examine how your own experiences and classroom power dynamics shape conflict, leaving you with actionable approaches to preserve trust, respect, and belonging even in the most challenging situations.

After viewing this Magna 20-Minute Mentor, participants will be able to: 

• Analyze how individual experiences and cultural influences shape conflict responses
• Distinguish between different forms of conflict in academic settings
• Evaluate the impact of power dynamics on classroom relationships
• Implement restorative justice frameworks to address and repair harm
• Demonstrate restorative communication techniques to foster inclusion and trust
• Develop strategies for guiding students through challenging conversations while maintaining

TOPICS COVERED 

• Examining how personal and cultural backgrounds shape attitudes toward conflict
• Identifying common types of conflict that emerge in college classrooms
• Recognizing visible and invisible power dynamics
• Applying restorative justice principles to address harm and preserve community
• Practicing restorative communication strategies

AUDIENCE

This program will benefit:

• Faculty members
• Adjunct instructors
• Teaching assistants and graduate instructors
• Department chairs and program directors
• Faculty developers and instructional designers
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) educators and coordinators

Product Code: PM25PA