Civil Discourse Toolkit
A page within Center for Civil Dialogue & Civic Engagement
Civil Discourse Toolkit
We are taking a multifaceted approach to civil discourse. Check out the variety of opportunities at UWL:
- Resources: check out the curated compilation of helpful tools and resources on the topic
- The Discussion Project: we offer this as a professional development opportunity for faculty and staff
- Dialogue Matters: we've embedded information on free expression and civil dialogue into our reimagined New Student Orientation session
- Civil Discourse Program: this is a cross-campus collaboration aimed to engage students and develop skills
- Joint Committee on Civil Discourse (JCCD): UWL has a committee, established by administration, to help campus understand free speech and promote discussion and dialogue. Learn more by clicking here.
What Is Discourse?
Discourse is a broad term that encompasses forms of conversation—dialogue, discussion, debate, and more. At its core, discourse is about how we communicate ideas, share perspectives, and make meaning together through speaking and listening.
At the CDCE, we view discourse as a powerful tool for learning, connection, and community-building. It allows individuals to explore complex topics, engage with differing viewpoints, and deepen their understanding of the world and each other.
Types of Discourse
| Dialogue | Discussion | Debate |
|---|---|---|
| Seeks deeper understanding | Encourages idea exchange | Aims to persuade or defend a position |
| Explores multiple perspectives | Participants may hold views but remain open | Often formal and structured |
| Emphasizes listening and reflection | Focuses on collaborative thinking | Involves argumentation and rebuttal |
Each type of discourse serves a different purpose, and all can be valuable depending on the context. Whether in classrooms, meetings, or informal settings, engaging in thoughtful discourse helps foster a more inclusive, informed, and connected campus community.
Sources
- Sources Schmidt, J., & Pinkney, N. (2022). Civil discourse: Classroom conversations for stronger communities. Rowman & Littlefield. The
- Discussion Project. (n.d.). Discussion Project. University of Wisconsin–Madison. https://discussion.education.wisc.edu/
What is The Discussion Project?
The Discussion Project, designed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is a professional learning course for education leaders and instructors. It equips participants with research-based strategies that positively impact the quality of education through more effective and inclusive discourse. You can learn more by clicking here.
The hands-on workshop uses learn-by-doing approach to help participants structure and lead meaningful conversations. Whether in the classroom or during student organization meetings, the ability to cultivate productive, transformative dialogue is essential.
Bringing The Discussion Project to UWL has been a cross-collaborative effort, and we are grateful for the support of our partners in Center for Advancing Teaching and Learning (CATL), Student Affairs, and across Access, Belonging & Compliance. We are proud to share that 57 UWL staff/faculty have completed this workshop and are using their skills to foster a more inclusive, engaging, and discussion-rich learning environment.
What is Dialogue Matters?
Dialogue Matters: Bridging Voices @ UWL is a New Student Orientation session designed to build a resilient campus community rooted in civil discourse, academic freedom, and inclusive dialogue. Facilitated by UWL staff and faculty trained through The Discussion Project, the session invites students to reflect on their path to UWL while exploring their rights to speak and learn freely. Through interactive conversations and a resource-rich zine, students are encouraged to challenge assumptions, grow in self-awareness, connect across differences, and engage meaningfully with those around them.
Check out the 2024 zine, full of related information and campus resources.
Civil Discourse Resources
Book
- Brookfield, Stephen D., and Stephen Preskill. Discussion as a Way of Teaching: Tools and Techniques for Democratic Classrooms. 2nd ed., Jossey-Bass, 2005.
- Brown, Stephen D. The Discussion Book: 50 Great Ways to Get People Talking. Jossey-Bass, 2016.
- Grant, A. (2021). Think again: The power of knowing what you don't know.
- Hess, Diana. Controversy in the Classroom. Routledge, 2009.
- Schmidt, Joe, and Nichelle Pinkney. Civil Discourse: Classroom Conversations for Stronger Communities. Corwin Teaching Essentials, 2022.
Podcast
- Brown, Brene. "Free Speech, Misinformation, and the Case for Nuance." Brene Brown Podcast, 2024
- Meiller, L. (Host). Civics 101: The ins and outs. Featuring UWL and Viterbo professor, Sam Scinta.
- NPR. Throughlines: Constitutional amendment series. NPR.
- UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement. SpeechMatters. University of California, National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement, 2024
- University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. CATL cast. UWL Center for Advancing Teaching and Learning.
- Walz, Brit, and Ashley Nowak. "Voices of Tomorrow with Joe Schmidt."
Video
- "Civil Discourse: A Book Discussion with Joe Schmidt & Nichelle Pinkney - Constitution Day 2023." Bill of Rights Institute, 2023
- Hess, Diana. "Ed-Talk: Political Education in Polarized Times." American Educational Research Association, 2016.
Website
- "All In Challenge." All In Challenge, allinchallenge.org.
- Constructive Dialogue. Constructive Dialogue, constructive-dialogue.org.
- "Dignity Index." Dignity Index, www.dignityindex.us.
- "Speaking Up Without Tearing Down." Learning for Justice, Southern Poverty Law Center
- National Issues Forums Institute. National Issues Forums Institute, www.nifi.org.
- Universities of Wisconsin. "Civil Dialogue." Universities of Wisconsin, www.wisconsin.edu/civil-dialogue/.
What is the Civil Discourse Program?
Led by University Centers, the Civil Discourse Program is a cross-campus initiative that promotes respectful, open conversations across differences. Through events such as expert panels and roundtable discussions facilitated by trained staff and peers, the program creates opportunities for students to engage in meaningful dialogue.
