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Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference

Jared Cline, Audrey Gallien, Tolonda M. Tolbert, Amelia Costigan, and Emily Troiano

Now more than ever, you are going to school, working, and living in communities with people who think, look, and have beliefs different from your own. This 45-minute course will give you the skills to bridge those divides and find common ground.

In this skills-based course, we will explore practical strategies and techniques to apply in your daily life. You will learn about the difference between dialogue, discussion, and debate; micro-affirmations; and how to be an ally.

If you are seeking to develop and practice these skills and apply them to build a more inclusive world, this course is for you. The course is also mobile-friendly.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

Communication skills to help you engage in dialogue instead of debate
How small but powerful acts of kindness (micro-affirmations) can lead to positive behavior changes

How to be a meaningful ally
Strategies to bridge divides, build inclusion, and create places where everyone feels welcome

Communication skills to help you engage in dialogue instead of debate
How small but powerful acts of kindness (micro-affirmations) can lead to positive behavior changes
How to be a meaningful ally
Strategies to bridge divides, build inclusion, and create places where everyone feels welcome

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides a comprehensive review of theory and best practices for fostering inclusion and belonging within different communities

Taught by five instructors with established professional credentials and expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion

Develops skills and abilities that are applicable to a variety of professional and personal communication contexts

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Reviews summary

Enhancing communication skills

Learners say that Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference is a helpful and easy-to-understand course that contains valuable information. It offers practice activities and valuable discussions to improve communication skills and dialogue across differences.

Offers discussions that stimulate thinking.

"The activities/discussions posted by other people are also worth reading, so have a scroll through them."

Course includes helpful practice activities.

"An easy-to-understand course with activities at each step."

Course covers valuable information.

"The best course of the world Because it contains valuable information in this area that has amazed me, developed from me, and increased my self-worth in order to achieve"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference with these activities:

Read and review "Crucial Conversations" by Al Switzler, Joseph Grenny, and Ron McMillan before the course starts

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This book will introduce you to the fundamentals of constructive communication, which is essential for building inclusive environments.

View Crucial Influence, Third Edition: Leadership... on Amazon

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Purchase the book and set aside time for reading.
Read the book and highlight key passages.
Take notes and write down any questions you have.

Complete a series of online exercises on micro-affirmations and ally behaviors

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These exercises will provide you with opportunities to practice these skills in a safe and supportive environment.

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Identify online exercises or simulations.
Work through the exercises and reflect on your responses.
Identify areas for improvement and continue practicing.

Connect with professionals or peers who can provide guidance on building inclusive environments

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Mentors can provide valuable insights, support, and encouragement as you work to build more inclusive environments.

Browse courses on Mentorship

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Identify potential mentors through professional networks, LinkedIn, or personal connections.
Reach out to potential mentors and schedule a meeting.
Prepare for the meeting by researching the mentor and preparing questions.
Attend the meeting, actively listen, and take notes.

Four other activities

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Participate in a peer-led discussion group to practice dialogue and debate skills

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Engaging in discussions with peers will allow you to refine your communication skills and learn from others' perspectives.

Browse courses on Dialogue

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Find a peer-led discussion group or start your own.
Prepare for the discussion by reading course materials and gathering information.
Actively participate in discussions and share your insights.

Design a poster or infographic to illustrate the key principles of inclusive communication

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Creating a visual representation of these principles will help you retain them and share them with others.

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Brainstorm and choose 3-5 key principles.
Design the poster or infographic using online tools or software.
Share your poster or infographic online or with classmates.

Volunteer at a local community center or organization that promotes diversity and inclusion

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Volunteering will allow you to apply your learning in a real-world setting and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

Browse courses on Diversity

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Research and identify local organizations.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Attend training and orientation programs.
Engage in meaningful conversations and learning experiences.

Develop a presentation or written report on best practices for creating inclusive spaces

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Creating a presentation or report will solidify your understanding of best practices and allow you to synthesize your learning from the course.

Browse courses on Best Practices

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Research and gather information on best practices for creating inclusive spaces.
Develop an outline or structure for your presentation or report.
Write or create your presentation or report, including examples and data to support your points.
Revise and edit your work for clarity and impact.
Share your presentation or report with classmates or a wider audience.

Career center

Learners who complete Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Diversity and Inclusion Manager

A Diversity and Inclusion Manager is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to promote diversity and inclusion within an organization. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course can be particularly valuable for professionals in this role, as it provides insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with fostering inclusive workplaces. By gaining a deeper understanding of communication techniques that bridge divides and build inclusion, Diversity and Inclusion Managers can effectively create and maintain diverse and welcoming environments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Diversity and Inclusion Manager

Intercultural Relations Specialist

An Intercultural Relations Specialist helps organizations and individuals navigate cultural differences and build relationships across cultures. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course can be highly beneficial for professionals in this field, as it provides practical strategies for engaging in respectful and effective communication across cultural boundaries. By learning how to bridge divides and create inclusive environments, Intercultural Relations Specialists can enhance their ability to facilitate cultural understanding and collaboration.

See salaries and explore the career path for Intercultural Relations Specialist

Conflict Resolution Specialist

A Conflict Resolution Specialist is a professional who helps resolve conflicts and disputes in various settings, such as workplaces, schools, and communities. Taking the "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course can be highly beneficial for individuals in this role, as it provides practical strategies and techniques for engaging in constructive dialogue and finding common ground. By learning how to bridge divides and create inclusive environments, Conflict Resolution Specialists can enhance their ability to facilitate productive conversations and resolve conflicts effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conflict Resolution Specialist

Community Organizer

A Community Organizer works to build relationships and mobilize communities to address social issues. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course can be beneficial for professionals in this field, as it provides strategies for engaging diverse communities. By learning how to effectively communicate across differences, Community Organizers can more effectively build coalitions and advocate for change.

See salaries and explore the career path for Community Organizer

Social Justice Advocate

A Social Justice Advocate works to promote social justice and equality for all. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course can be beneficial for professionals in this field, as it provides strategies for engaging in dialogue and bridging divides. By learning how to effectively communicate across differences, Social Justice Advocates can more effectively advocate for change and create a more just and equitable society.

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Human Resources Manager

A Human Resources Manager is responsible for managing the human resources function within an organization. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course can be useful for professionals in this role, as it provides techniques for fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace. By gaining knowledge of micro-affirmations and strategies for building inclusive environments, Human Resources Managers can effectively create a positive and supportive work culture.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager

Educator

An Educator teaches students in a variety of settings, such as schools, colleges, and universities. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course can be useful for professionals in this field, as it provides strategies for creating inclusive and engaging learning environments. By gaining knowledge of communication techniques that bridge divides, Educators can effectively foster respectful dialogue and create a positive learning experience for all students.

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Nonprofit Program Manager

A Nonprofit Program Manager is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating programs within a nonprofit organization. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course may be useful for professionals in this role, as it provides techniques for engaging diverse communities. By gaining knowledge of communication strategies that build inclusion, Nonprofit Program Managers can effectively create and manage programs that meet the needs of all.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Program Manager

Journalist

A Journalist researches, writes, and reports on news and current events. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course may be useful for professionals in this field, as it provides techniques for engaging diverse sources and perspectives. By gaining knowledge of communication strategies that build inclusion, Journalists can effectively report on issues that affect all members of society.

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Salesperson

A Salesperson sells products or services to customers. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course may be useful for professionals in this field, as it provides techniques for engaging diverse customers. By gaining knowledge of communication strategies that build inclusion, Salespeople can effectively connect with potential customers and build lasting relationships.

See salaries and explore the career path for Salesperson

Marketer

A Marketer develops and executes marketing campaigns to promote products or services. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course may be useful for professionals in this field, as it provides techniques for engaging diverse target audiences. By gaining knowledge of communication strategies that bridge divides, Marketers can effectively create campaigns that resonate with all consumers.

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Customer Service Representative

A Customer Service Representative provides support to customers. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course may be useful for professionals in this field, as it provides techniques for engaging diverse customers. By gaining knowledge of communication strategies that build inclusion, Customer Service Representatives can effectively resolve issues and create a positive experience for all customers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Customer Service Representative

Policy Analyst

A Policy Analyst researches and analyzes public policies to inform decision-making. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course may be useful for professionals in this role, as it provides techniques for engaging diverse stakeholders. By gaining knowledge of communication strategies that build inclusion, Policy Analysts can effectively engage with different perspectives and develop policies that are responsive to the needs of all.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Consultant

A Consultant provides expert advice to clients on a variety of topics. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course may be useful for professionals in this field, as it provides techniques for engaging diverse clients. By gaining knowledge of communication strategies that build inclusion, Consultants can effectively understand client needs and develop solutions that meet their unique requirements.

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Project Manager

A Project Manager plans, organizes, and executes projects. The "Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference" course may be useful for professionals in this field, as it provides techniques for engaging diverse stakeholders. By gaining knowledge of communication strategies that build inclusion, Project Managers can effectively lead teams and achieve project goals.

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Reading list

We've selected 17 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference.

Cross-Cultural and Intercultural Communication

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A comprehensive textbook that covers the theory and practice of intercultural communication.

Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference

What's inside

Learning objectives

Good to know

Save this course

Reviews summary

Enhancing communication skills

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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