This was one of my favorite classes that I have taken here at Longwood! In this class we explored the different controversial topics that health care professionals will experience in their careers. This was one of my favorite classes because it taught me a lot about myself that I did not know. Most class I am learning material that I WANT to learn but in this class, I wasn’t just learning wanted material but unknown things about myself.
Certain topics in the class I would go in with a notion of what I already believed in, but through the guidance of my professor, he taught me how to change my way of thinking to look at the OVERALL issue and not just a specific instance. This change in initial thinking and processing of the issue at hand actually changed my stance on a few topics. I now feel more educated on those topics and can now support my beliefs more strongly.
It was also one of my favorite classes because we learned how to discuss difficult topics gently, firmly, with poise and intention. Many times in the class there would be a confliction in ideas but we were able to have an ACTUAL discussion of ideas instead of an argument where both sides are trying to convince the other that they are wrong. This class taught me that there really aren’t any “wrong” ways to believe in certain issues. In these discussions, we learned how the different dialectics play out, which pieces of evidence all sides utilize to make their points, and which emotions are being tugged at.
We explored each topic with such a concise and logical way. It was like we were scientists examining how to study human emotion. With every theory, topic, and statement made in class there were always different ways to view and process it. If you were ever nervous to speak your mind, the professor reminded us that there was likely another student who felt the exact same way you do. This allowed the opportunity to discuss opposing views in respectful ways with our peers. This transfer of thoughts in this fashion hammered home the message that everyone has different opinions on these issues but should always be respected and cherished. Through this practice we learned how to navigate a conversation with someone who may have opposing ideas.