Universities Foster Dialogue Across Differences
Public discourse in the U.S. is more polarized than ever, with ideological extremes dividing communities, relationships, and democratic institutions. Addressing this challenge head-on, universities like the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley); Miami University; and the University of the Cumberlands are doing their part to make change.
One example is the Greater Good Science Center (GGSC) at UC Berkeley. The center has developed the Bridging Differences in Higher Education Fellowship, a comprehensive initiative blending science and storytelling to foster constructive dialogue and understanding across divisions.
“We believe that bridging differences is one of the most pressing challenges of our time,” said Juliana Tafur, program director of Bridging Differences at GGSC. “Our goal is to empower individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate differences in a constructive and empathetic way.”
GGSC takes a unique approach by combining research-based tools with hands-on applications. The Bridging Differences program emphasizes character virtues like compassion, empathy, and perspective-taking, equipping participants with skills that transcend academic settings.
“When we train these fellows and any organization that we’re working with, we’re training people on science-based skills,” says Cris Cuervo, Bridging Differences program coordinator. “We equip them with tools like listening with compassion, understanding others’ values, and finding shared identities. These are practices rooted in science that have the power to transform communities.”
Cuervo highlighted a notable example from Pennsylvania. “A university professor designed a program where students traveled across the state to engage with people holding different political views. Beforehand, they underwent compassion and listening training to prepare for these conversations. It’s a testament to how the science we teach can be turned into actionable projects that make a real difference.”
Bridging Differences offers a suite of resources, including articles, podcasts, videos (produced in collaboration with NationSwell), a Playbook, and a massive open online course. These resources are tailored for “gatekeepers” such as educators, workplace managers, community leaders, and faith-based organization heads, equipping them to lead efforts in fostering understanding across different groups.
The Playbook, a freely accessible online resource, serves as a cornerstone of the Bridging Differences program. It translates complex research into practical strategies that can be implemented in classrooms, workplaces, and community settings. “The Playbook breaks down the science into actionable steps, making it easier for people to incorporate these practices into their daily lives,” Cuervo explains.
This program, along with the Bridging Differences in Higher Education Learning Fellowship, is dedicated to equipping leaders with practical tools to implement in their communities. Monthly facilitated discussions, breakout groups, and skillbuilding sessions foster collaboration and provide a space for participants to share challenges and successes. The Bridging the Divide “When we train these fellows and any organization that we’re working with, we’re training people on sciencebased skills. We equip them with tools like listening with compassion, understanding others’ values, and finding shared identities. These are practices rooted in science that have the power to transform communities.” Cris Cuervo Bridging Differences Program Coordinator at UC Berkeley insightintoacademia.com 19 emphasis on real-world application ensures that participants leave with a toolkit of strategies they can adapt to their unique contexts.
At Miami University, M. Cristina Alcalde, vice president for transformational and inclusive excellence, has spearheaded the Constructive Dialogue Initiative, an effort inspired by the principles of Bridging Differences. The initiative uses short online modules and peer-to-peer activities to teach students essential skills like empathy, mindfulness, and conflict resolution.
“Our goal is to equip students with skills to recognize, respect, and benefit from the differences that enrich our Miami community,” Alcalde says. “The more we can listen and respect—rather than debate and try to change—each other, the more welcoming and less polarized our communities become.”
The program’s pilot in spring 2024 yielded impressive results: 78% of participants improved in affective polarization, while 58% demonstrated enhanced dichotomous thinking. Moreover, students noted significant growth in their ability to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts constructively.
“In an increasingly polarized world, these are critical professional and personal life skills,” Alcalde says. “By teaching competencies like communication, equity, and teamwork, we’re not only reducing polarization but also preparing students for success in their careers and communities.”
Additionally, the program’s integration into various academic and extracurricular activities at Miami ensures its long-term impact. Collaborations with the Honors College and other departments have expanded its reach, embedding dialogue skills into the university’s culture. Alcalde expressed optimism for the program’s future, stating, “We aim to make constructive dialogue a cornerstone of our students’ educational journey.”
At the University of the Cumberlands, Bridge the Gap, a fellowship overseen by Devon Goings, director of diversity, equity, and inclusion, brings students together to address societal divisions through interactive workshops, action projects, and skill-building activities. The program teaches participants to learn to seek common ground while respecting differing values.
“My goal is to encourage students to be interpersonally curious and conversationally charitable,” Goings says. “We’re in a unique position to engage students with people from different cultures and perspectives, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration.”
Bridge the Gap has had a measurable impact. Students report improved leadership and communication skills, along with a greater capacity to engage in challenging conversations. “Participants have told us how these experiences have changed their perspectives and given them the confidence to engage in difficult conversations,” Goings says. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see students grow as leaders and bridge builders.”
Goings also emphasized the importance of creating a supportive environment for dialogue. “In a world that often focuses on division, programs like Bridge the Gap remind us of the power of connection and understanding,” he says. By fostering these skills, the fellowship not only impacts participants but also creates a ripple effect throughout the campus and surrounding community.
The urgency of addressing polarization cannot be overstated. Tafur notes, “The hostility and distrust we see today undermine not just our relationships but the integrity of our democratic institutions. Bridging differences isn’t just an ideal—it’s a necessity.”
Programs like Bridging Differences, Constructive Dialogue, and Bridge the Gap demonstrate the power of combining research and practice to tackle complex societal challenges. By fostering empathy, understanding, and collaboration, these initiatives offer a blueprint for building a more united and resilient society.
Looking ahead, the GGSC is exploring new ways to engage communities and amplify its impact. “We’re committed to reaching more individuals and organizations,” Tafur said in a statement. “The more people who have access to these tools, the greater the potential for transformative change.”
Alcalde and Goings echo this sentiment, adding, “When we focus on listening, understanding, and connecting, we can create communities where everyone feels they belong,” Alcalde says. Goings adds, “These initiatives remind us that meaningful change starts with dialogue and the willingness to learn from one another.”
