Dialogue Initiative
What is Dialogue?
Dialogue is a form of communication focused on building connection and understanding between people. Unlike debate, which aims to determine a winning side, or discussion, which often centers on exchanging ideas, dialogue emphasizes finding common ground and creating bridges between different perspectives. In dialogue, participants are encouraged to bring their full identities and experiences into the conversation, making respect, openness, and shared understanding essential parts of the exchange.
Dialogue @ UIC
The Dialogue Initiative at University of Illinois Chicago began in 2009 after campus leaders attended the University of Michigan National Institute of Intergroup Relations and brought the idea back to UIC. Rooted in an extensive research base, the Dialogue Initiative offers courses, workshops, and consultations to support the campus and community in applying dialogic tools to courses, professional settings and everyday life.
Today, the Dialogue 120 course is the Initiative's signature program. Dialogue 120 is a 1-credit course enrolling approximately 450 students annually through small, discussion-based classes that help students build confidence engaging across differences, reflect on identity, and strengthen understanding of others.
Dialogic and Other Tools for Teaching in Turbulent Times
Check out our new resource on preventing and diffusing challenging moments of conflict.
This resource was developed in collaboration between CATE and the Office for Engagement.