How can faculty generate dynamic and meaningful classroom discussions? How can students learn to engage with controversial topics in civil, respectful ways? How can faculty help young people learn about diverse perspectives? This workshop offers guidance on how educators can foster a democratic classroom culture, enable students to engage thoughtfully with a variety of ideas and practice civil discourse skills that are vital in today's world.

Presented by Brett Levy, associate professor in the Department of Educational Theory and Practice and 2024 Andrew Carnegie Fellow. He studies how educational strategies can help reduce political polarization in the U.S and, more broadly, how educational programs can support civic engagement among youth. 

For this interactive workshop, Dr. Levy welcomes faculty from across campus to experience and analyze a variety of classroom discussion strategies. Undergraduates from Katie Rader's political science course will be participating, as well.

Faculty: Please be sure to RSVP for your free lunch at this event.

UAlbany’s Constitution Day and Great Dane Dialogue features a week of panels on navigating civil discourse in a divided society. Students will hear from journalists, advocates, and elected officials as they share perspectives on negotiation, collaboration, and civic engagement—offering real-world insights into building understanding, finding compromise, and strengthening democracy. You will not want to miss this engaging discussion as the Great Dane Dialog continues!

Co-Sponsored by the Offices of Communications and Marketing, Inclusive Excellence, Student Affairs, First Year Experience, CATLOE, OGCR/Leading Questions, Rockefeller College, Interfaith Center, University Libraries and the New York State Writers Institute.

For a complete schedule of events, visit Great Dane Dialogue.