Perspectives by Constructive Dialogue
Dialogue across differences is an important value at Appalachian. To support this, we have partnered with the Constructive Dialogue Institute to support Mountaineers in building skills to practice constructive dialogue: A form of conversation where people with different perspectives try to understand each other - without giving up their own beliefs - in order to live, learn, and work together.
The main source of this skill building is through CDI’s online program Perspectives, which weaves together psychological concepts with interactive scenarios to equip people with the skills for healthy conflict.
The program includes a total of 6 online modules (30 minutes each) completed asynchronously at your own pace, with the option to add 3 peer-to-peer conversation activities to supplement the experience and practice new skills. The first two modules teach behavioral science insights to help learners gain the mindset for constructive dialogue. Modules 4-6 cover the practical skills needed to engage in dialogue across differences.
Preview the Perspectives modules
Benefits
The skills students gain from the program can help with:
- Roommate disagreements
- Classroom debates and discussions
- Collaboration on projects
- Making and maintaining friendships with people from differing backgrounds
Research Backed Outcomes
Perspectives has been rigorously tested through randomized controlled trials — the gold standard in research. Over 80% of students report increased confidence navigating difficult conversations and communicating across differences after completing Perspectives. Additionally, 84% say Perspectives helped them gain valuable professional and life skills.
Implementation
To set up a dashboard for your classroom, student club, residence hall floor, intramural team, student or staff employees, (or any other group you can think of!) to participate in the Perspectives modules, reach out to Summer Wisdom (wisdomss@appstate.edu), Associate Director in the Office of Community-Engaged Leadership to get started!
Other Resources from the Constructive Dialogue Institute
- A resource library of exercises & activities to support dialogue
- Maintaining Campus Community During the 2024 Election: A Guide for Leaders, Faulty, and Staff
- Five Practice to Foster Constructive Dialogue in Your Classroom