Many college courses, whether in a physical or virtual classroom setting, have lectures and discussions, which is unfamiliar territory for many incoming freshmen. Therefore, when defending or opposing a comment it is important to remember to always keep your cool!

In a time when emotions and immediate instinct fuel anger, keeping calm and thinking about your response before exploding in class will always keep the conversation constructive.  A differing view is important, and adamantly disagreeing is equally important, however, launching anger and exploding into a discussion, changing the tone from friendly to hostile, is never a good idea.

Instead, gently bring in your view while keeping in mind your opposition feels just as passionately about her position. Angry isn’t going to solve anything.  Remaining calm and waiting to voice an opinion with composure is like receiving an infuriating email. The longer you wait to respond, the softer your tone becomes and your answer more gratifying.

Let’s face it. In your classes people will voice ideas you’re not going to like. Anger isn’t going to change anyone’s mind, but rational conversation might persuade someone to consider a different view.

Here’s a solid rule of thumb in my classes. Everyone is entitled to an opinion.  You may not agree, nor like what is said, and you may not even respect the opinion because it goes against your every ounce of existence, but at the same time there is no need to be disrespectful. After all, it’s a class discussion.

Keep it professional. Project the respect. Interject your opinion. Add facts or references to support your view.  Remember, tone is everything.

I’m reminded of a discussion that took place in one of my undergraduate history classes, the topic was the Holocaust.  At some point in the discussion a guy from the back of the room stated, “I don’t believe the Holocaust ever happened.”  Before the professor could react an even toned female voice interjected, “I’ll mention that to my neighbor while her grandson reads the numbers tattooed on her forearm. Maybe the guy back there can tell her it never happened.”

The woman’s calm demeanor commanded the room. The air shifted allowing someone else to interject and flip the conversation; and I have a memory to share with my reader.  Had the conversation gotten angry, the memory would have been quite different.

The moral of the story is to keep calm, stay professional, and know your facts, especially when disagreeing with others.  By doing so, you will not only gain respect of your peers, but also control of the discussion.