This class will explore effective modes of communication in both interpersonal and intercultural dialogue. In planning this class we have been motivated by our conviction that thoughtful exchange requires an environment where one is both trusting and trustworthy. Emphasizing embodied discussion, sessions will include movement, mindful interaction between participants, and writing integrated with close readings of theoretical materials. Exercises are intended to foster self- knowledge, critical reflection, and attentiveness to each other’s stories, in the belief that such reflective skills foster healthy communities through mutually respectful relationships between individuals, groups, and nations. In other words, the skills on which we will focus should apply directly to daily life as well as to multilingual/international work environments. By social change, we mean a conscious process to reduce poverty and oppression by changing unequal power relationships.

Essential to this class will be the integration of scholarly analysis with insights from movement and physiology and also with interviews, exploratory writing, and personal narratives. The instructors will all fully participate as well as help to facilitate these exercises. For the final sessions participants will present a project applying one or more of the skills, which have been introduced within some larger personal or professional context of special interest to them.