Civic dialogue is a skill set focused on mutual understanding, close connection, and the discovery of new possibilities, particularly useful for exploring difficult issues with others and our community.
Why is civic dialogue important?
“Hearing others’ stories made me feel like I understand their viewpoints more. Knowing how someone came to believe what they do makes their stance more human and relatable, even if you don’t agree.”
“Civic dialogue is vital for doctors, technicians, or nurses—I hope to improve skills like self-awareness, active listening, and teamwork to make me a better fit in the healthcare community"
“I want to improve my ability to just sit and listen to what others have to say without judging it at first. You have to first be a good listener in order to truly respect someone.”
Civic dialogue builds bridges between people with different perspectives and views who need to solve problems together.
Building community through engagement
The Civic Dialogue Initiative is about more than navigating difficult conversations—it's about creating the conditions for people to think together, live in community, and collaborate on solutions that strengthen society. In a world where perspectives vary widely, civic dialogue teaches us the art of integrating diverse viewpoints, whether rooted in research, lived experience, or group decision-making.
In higher education, this practice is crucial. It challenges us to engage deeply, not just to argue, but to listen, to discern, and ultimately, to craft thoughtful ways forward. Civic dialogue provides the tools to foster understanding across differences, empowering our entire campus community to approach conflict as an engine of innovation for the future.
This initiative is about learning to live with, think with, and act alongside others—balancing individual perspectives with the collective good, and moving forward with intention and care.
Civic Dialogue Programs and Activities
Dinner Table Dialogues
This series provides regular opportunities for students to talk and listen with other students about the community that they want to make together - with lots of delicious food!
Residence Education Pilot
In fall 2024 the University of Iowa will be piloting the Civic Dialogue Initiative in residence halls on campus. The Civic Dialogue Initiative aims to enhance students' abilities to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaborate with individuals holding differing views. By focusing on developing foundational skills for civic dialogue, the initiative aims to equip students with essential competencies for healthy and effective communication, contributing to their academic success, leadership skills, and personal development.
First-Year Seminar
Speak, Listen, Connect: This course is designed to enhance civic dialogue skills crucial for engaging with diverse perspectives and fostering meaningful collaborations and relationships. It offers a rich blend of theoretical insights, hands-on activities, and collaborative discussions to cultivate empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution abilities.
The Power of Mindset
Mindsets have the power to shape every conversation you have.
Warrior mindset
Warrior mindset is a focus on winning an argument and proving that we are right.
Explorer mindset
Explorer mindset is a focus on learning and understanding as much as we can about another person.
“Leadership requires the ability to communicate with individuals who are different than us. And we must be able to do that, and debate vigorously, without dehumanizing. I’m excited this initiative will teach such vital lessons.”
“I discovered my group shares similar beliefs, and that dialogue is a great way to break down our assumed differences. Going forward, I’d like to use my dialogue skills throughout my upper-level Political Science classes and in my future legal career.”
