Better Conversations Together: What Our First Years Are Learning

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Did you know that all first-year and new transfer students are participating in a multi-part program, beginning during Orientation, which is designed to build civic dialogue muscles as a part of their required free speech training? It’s called “Better Conversations” and it is intended to help students understand their own views and values, as well as learn how to actively listen and productively talk with others across divides. This presentation will introduce the basics of what our incoming class will be learning and how you can leverage that content in your courses to have better conversations about difficult issues.

Pair this session with "Introduction to Perspectives" if you are teaching first year students.

Pair this session with "5 Keys to Facilitating Better Conversations in Class" and "Lunch and Learn Series: Facilitating Better Conversations in the Classroom" for a deeper dive and increased impact.

Date & Time: Friday, 10/25, from 4:00 - 4:30 PM

Location: Online (The Zoom link will be provided either with the email registration confirmation or by email the day before the event.)

Presenter: Kara Dillard, Madison Center for Civic Engagement & CAL

Genre: Presentation

Program Outcome: Describing the basics of the "Better Conversations Together" program

**Attendance & Registration Information**
Our programs are intended for JMU faculty or staff only! If you are a student or administrator and would like to attend, please email cfi@jmu.edu with your request. Refer to the CFI Programs & Events webpage for detailed information and an instructional video on how to use the registration portal!
LOG IN: If this is your first time visiting the registration page, your account will be created automatically when you sign in with your JMU e-ID and password (DUO required). Be sure to clear your browser cache/cookies upon each visit to the registration page. Complete your profile information: Update your college/division and department (use the search feature and/or select from the dropdown) and enter your Mail Stop Code (MSC) for your department on-campus mail. Add comments about your dietary & accommodation needs at the bottom of the profile form. (This information is collected and stored with your online account for all future programs you may attend.) Once your profile is complete, you should see a status update as complete on your Dashboard (an overview of your account).

Register by Wednesday, 10/23, by 11:59 PM.

**Cancellations**
If you find that you are unable to attend a scheduled event prior to the registration deadline, please return to your CFI Program Account and cancel your registration. If it is after the event registration deadline email cfi@jmu.edu as early as possible. CFI programs will be canceled automatically if JMU is closed for inclement weather. We want this program to be welcoming, accessible, and inclusive for all of our participants. Please describe any considerations or accommodations (e.g., dietary, disability, wellness, cultural, etc.) you want us to know about in your account profile. You may also reach out to us at cfi@jmu.edu or (540) 568-4846.