In our increasingly polarized world, meaningful dialogue across differences is crucial. The Perspectives program at the University of Utah, designed by the Constructive Dialogue Institute (CDI) and facilitated by the Bennion Center, equips students with the tools to engage in constructive conversations that promote understanding and respect.

What is Perspectives?

Perspectives is an interactive online program designed to teach students the principles of constructive dialogue through engaging 30-minute lessons. These lessons blend insights from psychology with practical skills, empowering students to communicate effectively, collaborate, and address conflicts while maintaining their beliefs and values. Students also have the option to practice their skills in real-time peer-to-peer discussions throughout the program.

As Josh Shulruff, Campus Dialogue Program Manager for the Bennion Center, highlights, “What’s great about Perspectives is that it helps us seek mutual understanding without giving up our convictions. Constructive dialogue is not about changing the other person’s mind or defending your own beliefs. Instead, it’s about paying attention to your biological responses to conflict, trying to see the world through another person’s eyes, listening carefully, and sharing personal stories.”

Why constructive dialogue matters

Constructive dialogue enriches individuals’ perspectives, clarifies differences, and uncovers common ground, paving the way for potential collaborations that may have once seemed impossible. These skills are essential for students, as college life provides a unique environment for young adults to engage with diverse viewpoints. Perspectives is especially beneficial for those seeking to develop leadership abilities. By mastering constructive dialogue, student leaders will be empowered to navigate interactions with individuals from various backgrounds and opinions effectively.

“The data show us that college students already believe that it’s important to listen to those with whom they disagree, but that there are barriers to engaging in those fraught conversations. Perspectives is an opportunity to build skills that will help our students to learn from one another,” Shulruff points out. “Constructive dialogue will help you to talk with someone about Gaza or the election, but it’s also useful if you’re having a tough time with a roommate, or if you’re not sure how you’re going to get through Thanksgiving dinner without getting into an argument with your uncle, or if you want to show a future employer that you’ve got the skills to excel on a diverse team.”

How to get involved

The Bennion Center and Shulruff are here to help support students in a variety of ways as they go through this program.

Student leaders of registered student organizations are encouraged to register their organizations to go through the program together and to use the peer-to-peer discussions as valuable opportunities to build community.

Building a culture of understanding

Perspectives offers students a golden opportunity to learn how to navigate disagreements with respect and empathy. By creating spaces for real conversation, the program equips students to engage thoughtfully with those they might not agree with—an invaluable skill in today’s world.

For more information about the Perspectives program, visit their website.