COMM 3150 - Dialoguing through Conflict: Tackling Taboo Topics

Public discourse about taboo topics has always been a challenge, but with the advent of social media and echo chambers, discourse has become more politically polarized. Frequently, we find ourselves either walking on eggshells around sensitive issues, or entering into high conflict where family members are estranged, co-workers avoid each other, and neighbors are no longer civil. Rather than avoiding tough conversations, this course provides students with an opportunity to engage with both the theory and the practice of healthy conflict. Students will gain basic skills in conflict mediation and formal dialogue. Through communication techniques which emphasize attention, listening, and understanding, students will address taboo topics with fellow students, friends and family, and with the broader community. Ultimately, this course will provide students with the skills to discuss difficult issues without animosity and with a spirit of curiosity.