In the age of social media, where ideas are unmediated but often gauged by “likes” and “hearts,” it can be intimidating to try to foster critical thinking in discussions of social issues in the online classroom. As instructors, we may be apprehensive of engaging in topics that evoke deep-seated opinions and emotions or reflect painful experiences. However, education and social research tell us that these discussions are important for fostering personal growth (Ford & Malaney, 2012). In his studies on “race talk,” Sue (2013) argues that “participants in successful racial dialogues report less intimidation and fear of differences, an increased compassion for others, a broadening of their horizons, appreciation of people of all colors and cultures, and a greater sense of connectedness with all groups.”
