Principles for Teaching
Sensitive Topics at BYU-Idaho
July 2011
Our religion is simply the truth. It is all said in this one expression — it embraces all truth, wherever found, in all the works of God and man that are visible or invisible to mortal eye. (Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses 10:251)
The missions of Brigham Young University–Idaho are to “build testimonies of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and encourage living its principles” and to “provide a quality education for students of diverse interests and abilities.” We recognize that to adequately prepare our students to function and excel in their chosen fields and in their future communities, it will be necessary at times to include issues that may be considered controversial or sensitive by some individuals.
The principles outlined below are offered as a guide to faculty as we deal with any potentially difficult issue:
- Faithful, Meek, Intelligent, and Wise. These attributes, along with a testimony of divine truths, are essential characteristics of disciple scholars. As we discuss controversial subjects with our students, we must approach such issues from an attitude of humility and faith and we must use all available knowledge. Most importantly, as we assist students in applying an eternal perspective, they will be better able to distinguish between information that is essential and that which may be of temporary value.
- Uplifting. Learning and teaching is a sacred act and is designed to lift and build students. Preventing doubt of fundamental tenets within students requires that we handle challenging topics with care and skill, not avoid them. We must always tread carefully as we attempt to correct students’ views and be mindful to cause no harm. Additionally, classroom media should be selected with great care, avoiding works that promote vulgarity, immoral or suggestive behavior, or that are excessively violent.
- Balanced and Respectful. Our classrooms should be a safe place for students to learn of both doctrine and science—by study and by faith. We must recognize that the gospel of Jesus Christ encompasses all truth, whether revealed or discovered. However, there are many areas of inquiry that cannot, at present, be fully resolved. Problems arise when undue emphasis is placed on interpretation and opinion. In teaching sensitive subjects, we must show students the full spectrum of serious thought and opinion and do so in a manner that is respectful of others’ views. We must be careful not to misrepresent a topic by presenting only those quotes or ideas that support our position, to the exclusion of those that may support other viewpoints.
- Consistent and Unified. All teaching should support and further the University’s mission, follow policies and standards established by our Board, and maintain a harmony with our academic destiny as envisioned by prophets. We must also be one. Unity is necessary for us to qualify for the Spirit and the blessings of heaven. Never put students in situations that undermine open-minded inquiry, other faculty, or priesthood leaders.
- Protective of That Which is Sacred. Our treatment of sacred topics must never be inappropriate. We must avoid being casual or routine in treatment of such topics. When in doubt, we should err on the side of caution. We should follow the example of leaders of the Church and avoid material they would not include in their teachings. As with any activity, the presence of the Holy Ghost should be sought in the selection and presentation of any potentially sensitive topic.