Constructive Dialogue: Online Classes

All the course below are free to take. Most have the option to pay for a certification.

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Brief Overview

• Braver Angels: Several free course available including:
  • Depolarizing Within Online Course: “[D]esigned to foster skills to help you lessen the effects of polarization when you encounter them in your political conversations. Note that by “polarization,” we are not referring to healthy disagreements over issues or philosophy. We are talking about how we regard and talk about large groups of ordinary people on the other side of the political aisle.”
  • Managing Difficult Conversations: “[T]his workshop will equip you with practical tools you can use immediately when a constituent or colleague (of whatever political party) tells you how wrong you are and how you should change course. These skills can lower stress that comes from having difficult political conversations and help you feel more satisfied and more confident in your role as an elected official. At best, you will soften critics and find more common ground. Or at least you won’t add fuel to today’s epidemic of incivility.”

Advanced

• Bridging Differences by University of Berkeley via edX: “Free edX course with the option to upgrade to a shareable certificate. Participants will “[l]earn research-based strategies for better relationships, dialogue, and understanding across divides. Relevant to anyone navigating conflicts and differences, especially geared toward college campuses.”
• Communication Skills for Dialoguing Across Difference by Catalyst via edX: “Develop practical communication skills to mend divides and build a more tolerant and inclusive world.”
• Having Difficult Conversations in the Virtual World by Indiana University via edX: “Having the skills to engage in difficult conversations in the virtual world can support you in both work and personal situations.”