Students are uncomfortable discussing certain topics. How can you address their concerns effectively?

The first step is to share the topic's objective with students prior to the discussion, which would probably address some of the concerns that hindered students from wanting to engage in such topics. Teachers can then leverage their professional relationships and knowledge of their learners to delve deep into the topics. While discussing these topicals, it is important for teachers to be conscious of the examples they use and ensure that their students' diversities ( cultural, gender, and religion ) are respected. Lastly, teachers should actively ensure that the learning space is safe enough for every student to express themselves and be on the lookout for any students who remain uncomfortable engaging in the topic.

Before addressing concerns, you should first demonstrate effective listening skills, empathy and a non-judgemental attitude within the classroom. To do so, ensuring that students feel comfortable seeking your 1:1 advice. Acknowledge that certain topics can be sensitive and that it’s normal to feel uncomfortable. Validate their feelings by saying, "I understand that this topic may be difficult for some of you." Explain why the topic is important and how it relates to their lives or future. Contextualizing the discussion can make it feel more relevant and less intimidating. Using real-life case studies can help them know they are not alone. Allow students to write their thoughts or questions instead of speaking out loud.

Building trust is essential in cultivating a safe space. Students need to feel confident that their voices will be respected and that they can express themselves authentically. Encouraging active listening and validating their feelings and perspectives helps in establishing this trust. Acknowledging upfront that discussing certain topics can be uncomfortable or sensitive normalizes these feelings, reassuring students that it's okay to feel uneasy and that growth often involves navigating challenging concepts.

Discomfort around a given topic is a common barrier to learning in PSHE and PD. We tackled this with our PSHE app Peerscroller by using a range of peer presenters close in age to the learner. We borrowed stylistically from the social media videos students are familiar with, like those on TikTok and Instagram. That means we can really spotlight the personal experiences of our peer presenters to create that open "dialogue" and demonstrate the importance of sharing your own experiences. That said, opinion and personal experience must go hand in hand with a solid foundation of facts. That doesn't mean including LESS personal experience - just proper fact-checking to make sure your content is evidence-based, unbiased, and pedagogically-sound.

Create a safe and inclusive environment, encourage open communication, use anonymous feedback tools, incorporate sensitive topics gradually, provide resources for support, foster mutual respect, and offer one-on-one discussions.