Race in the CMC Classroom

Bomberger, Ann M. “Ranting about race: Crushed eggshells in computer-mediated communication.” Computers and Composition 21.2 (2004): 197-216. Web. 31 May 2010.



In this article, Bromberger explores how to tackle conflicts about race in computer-mediated communication (CMC). She touches on what an instructor can do in these types of situation to stop unnecessary conflict and to encourage students to work together. Bromberger begins the article by offering a scenario of students having a conflict about race. She emphasizes that just because conflict occurs in CMC doesn’t mean that it should not be used. She points out that CMC can be a dangerous tool if not handled correctly, but it has the potential to be a great tool to for effective class sense of community. She goes on to say that conflict is more likely in CMC than fact-to-face because of:
• Less inhibition
• Unfamiliar terrain
• Public embarrassment
• Frustration with technology
• Physical surroundings and conditions

From here Bromberger explores why an electronic discussion board is a good venue to address issues of race or any other emotionally charged topic (political or social). She states that using discussion board gives a voice to those who might otherwise remain silent and negotiating conflict is a vital life skill. From here she presents two scenarios. The first shows a student who learns about race through an angry negative discussion on gender. The second she shares a students rant about race on the discussion board. She uses these two scenarios to show that the Internet is not the great equalizer that it was touted to be. It was supposed to be a raceless and genderless place, but that is not the case. Bromberger presents that instructors who plan to use CMC must acknowledge this and the digital divide that is still presents ways to avoid conflict as well as the distinction between necessary conflict that is based on valid disagreement (teaching moment) and unnecessary conflict which is a distraction. The ways to avoid conflict are:
• Be sure that the topics are on the appropriate level for students
• Develop a sense of community
• Promote active, respectful listening
• Community generated guidelines
• Model appropriate posts
• Use personal narrative
• Anticipate and address White people’s defensiveness

She concludes that we should not have to walk on eggshells in the CMC classroom. She points out that dealing with conflicts and racial issues are not easy but they can be handled in a way that addresses and acknowledges all parties involved and provide a learning experience.
I think this is a great article for anyone interested in teaching online because you never know what the demographics of your class will be. Also, with teaching writing we often discuss social, political, and culture issues to encourage critical thinking and sophisticated use of language. These topics are areas where issues of race and ethnicity will come up. It is important to be aware of this when handling the class, creating discussions, and monitoring the students’ interactions. Bromberger makes a great point about allowing all sides to be heard; that is very important in creating community in an online class, which helps students to better interact with one another and with the content of the course.