Our students are facing any number of emotions as their lives take this unprecedented turn. Studies have shown that addressing a crisis in class is helpful to those affected.1 Here are a few suggestions on how to talk about the COVID pandemic in class.
Ask Questions
- How are you holding up?
- Is anyone close to you sick?
- Is there anything that you would like us to pray for?
- Does anyone have any praises they would like to share?
- Does anyone have any questions or comments before we turn to our content?
Share Information
- Share reputable facts with your students and keep things in perspective.
- Be aware that students may have particularly acute stress.
- Encourage your students to keep connected.
- Point students to additional help if needed.
- Assign coursework relevant to your discipline that pertains to the tragedy.
Have Patience
- Some students who are stressed, suffering, or in challenging circumstances may need more time to complete assignments.
- Consider students who are in a different time-zone or are caring for others throughout the day. Make sure class material can be available to them in case they are not able to participate synchronously.
1https://cft.vanderbilt.edu/guides-sub-pages/crisis/