Wright State University Center for Civics, Culture, and Workforce Development — Clark County Library in Springfield
This hands-on workshop equips K–12 educators with a practical method for civil conversation that prioritizes understanding over persuasion. Participants learn to listen actively, accurately reflect what the other person has said, confirm that they feel heard, and only then share an alternate perspective—creating space for genuine exchange rather than debate. The goal is not to determine who is right, but to help both parties feel respected and understood. Teachers will practice techniques they can immediately use with students, colleagues, and families to model curiosity, reduce polarization, and foster classrooms where differing views can be explored with dignity. This is not a debate class. It is training in the skill of listening first so that every voice has a real chance to be heard.