Managing Emotions in the College Classroom: The Cultural Diversity Course as an Example

Abstract

The classroom is a probable site for emotion management, especially when courses deal with topics that may be controversial or that evoke both students' and teachers' sensitivities. In this paper, we identify and present the cultural diversity course as an example of such a classroom and define emotion management, which we suggest is relevant to the classroom setting. We then apply the theoretical concept of emotion management to teaching methods, considering ways that teachers can structure the course to best manage and utilize emotions in the classroom. A collection of emotion management strategies and exercises, which can be employed selectively, is also included. We believe that by applying an understanding of how emotional responses are socially mediated, instructors can better facilitate class and maximize learning