The ability to communicate effectively across differences is a key aspect of promoting belonging within a community. In research by the AAC&U, intercultural knowledge and competence has also been identified by employers as a highly desirable skill in employees they hire. Starting in August 2024, Georgia Tech launched a pilot initiative to offer the online course Perspectives, powered by the Constructive Dialogue Institute (CDI), to all students. This course is being offered as part of Institute initiatives in support of Georgia Tech’s strategic value, “We safeguard freedom of inquiry and expression.”

This course provides all Georgia Tech students with a shared language for engaging in conversations that reflect care and compassion. Developing these skills helps to reduce the possibility of future interpersonal, organizational, and campus conflicts. Strengthening our community, through dialogue and disagreement, is an essential responsibility in what it means to be a Yellow Jacket!

This online course is designed to equip students with valuable skills to engage in meaningful conversations across differences in background, cultural beliefs, ideas, or opinions. Whether it’s navigating tough discussions with friends or understanding divergent perspectives in class, the skills gained through Perspectives will help create a more connected campus community – one in which every student can feel like they are heard and validated.

Students receive an invitation to get started with Perspectives via email. If you cannot find your original email invitation from vp_sewb@gatech.edu, please visit this page and submit your info. Directions for accessing Perspectives will then be sent to you.  For more information about Freedom of Expression @ Georgia Tech, please bookmark and visit this page (students.gatech.edu/freedom_of_expression).