Seminars

Programme spring 2026

No registration needed for the online seminars.
Welcome!

3 March, 12:00–13:00
Teaching Controversial Issues

Speaker: Fredrik Portin, Associate Professor of Religious Studies and Theology and Academic Developer, The Centre for Teaching and Learning, Malmö University
Language: Swedish
Zoom: https://uu-se.zoom.us/j/2576973357

Teaching controversial issues (sometimes referred to as sensitive or moral issues) has become an increasingly important concern in higher education. In a society marked by antagonistic tensions—due to large-scale international conflicts, polemical rhetoric on social media, the erosion of civility in political debate, and the media’s fixation on conflict-it is crucial that teachers address these issues in effective ways.

Fredrik Portin conducts research and teaches on controversial issues in higher education. In his presentation, he will argue why controversial issues should be taught and highlight the risks associated with this form of teaching. To support teachers in minimizing these risks, he will also introduce an interactive tool that can be used when preparing teaching on controversial issues.

Responsible for online seminars is Ulrike Schnaas, Educational developer, Unit for Academic Teaching and Learning, ulrike.schnaas@uu.se