Common Ground Program
The Common Ground Dialogue Program brings together groups of undergraduate students to engage in a peer-led, structured exploration of contemporary dilemmas in our society.
Program Highlights
- Inclusive Learning: These dialogues welcome participants with different levels of familiarity on the topics, as well as a range of identities & perspectives to foster meaningful interactions across differences.
- Peer-Led Experience: These sessions are guided by trained undergraduate Peer Dialogue Leaders.
- Supportive Environment: In this respectful and inclusive dialogue climate, participants share their opinions and react to others openly and authentically.
- Dialogue Skills: Participants learn skills to effectively engage in conversations on difficult topics and model healthy conflict such as active listening, asking questions for understanding, speaking to be understood and more.
Format Options
Credit/Course Experiences
COMMON GROUND DELIBERATIVE DIALOGUES (CHSE228)
“Common Ground Deliberative Dialogues” (CHSE 228) is a 1-credit course where students engage in peer-led discussions on complex and often divisive societal topics. Through shared perspectives and collaborative problem-solving, students build skills to navigate challenging conversations, aiming for areas of consensus. By the end, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the topic’s complexity and develop empathy for differing viewpoints, even when they may not fully agree.
FACILITATOR DEVELOPMENT & PRACTICUM (WEID300)
“Facilitator Development & Practicum” (WEID 300) is a 3-credit course that provides students with the knowledge and skills to facilitate intergroup dialogues and social justice workshops on topics like race, class, and gender. The course covers dialogue as a communication model, facilitation as leadership, group dynamics, social identity, and solidarity building. Upon completion, students are eligible for paid roles as Peer Dialogue Leaders in the Common Ground Dialogue Program and other campus dialogue initiatives.
Co-Curricular Learning Opportunities
For campus partners interested in any of these co-curricular programs please reach out to nkimani@umd.edu for inquiries.
TRENDING TOPICS
“Trending Topics” is a one-session dialogue that creates an opportunity for students to consider the complexities and personal meanings of a controversial issue or dilemma. These work well for students looking to process a breaking news story or event. Previous topics include hate speech on campus, celebrity scandals, and the presidential election.
YOUID
“YouID” is a one-session dialogue where students collectively explore and reflect deeply on aspects of their social identities including race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, age, class, and more. This session is a great introduction to the foundations of dialogue and building community trust and understanding.
FOUR-SESSION DIALOGUES
Four-session dialogues guide students through peer-led discussions on societal issues, exploring diverse identities and perspectives. Sessions include topic exploration, discussing actions, building consensus, and reflecting on outcomes. Participants leave with greater empathy and skills for inclusive dialogue. This program integrates well in courses seeking an immersive deliberative dialogue experience.
Get Involved
Learn more about paid positions as a Peer Dialogue Leader or Multicultural Advocate on our Student Employment page.
If you have any questions or would like more information on the program, please reach out to Nikita Kimani, Coordinator for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion at nkimani@umd.edu.
