In today’s interconnected yet increasingly divided world, the ability to engage in constructive conversations with those holding different viewpoints is more crucial than ever. Recognizing this pressing need, UCLA’s commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment shines through its innovative programs designed to equip students and faculty with essential dialogue skills. Among these premium offerings, the Dialogue across Difference (DaD) initiatives stand out, presenting Luxe Course Options For Learning how to bridge divides and cultivate understanding.
UCLA, through its Teaching and Learning Center (TLC), is spearheading the Dialogue across Difference Faculty Fellows Program. This prestigious fellowship supports UCLA instructors dedicated to integrating DaD principles—intellectual engagement, curiosity, empathy, active listening, and critical thinking—into their curricula and teaching methodologies. The inaugural cohort, selected from a competitive pool of 28 applicants, comprises 16 faculty members representing a diverse array of disciplines, from Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences to Law and Sociology. This impressive group exemplifies UCLA’s dedication to providing luxe course options for learning that are both interdisciplinary and deeply relevant to contemporary challenges.
The 2024-25 DaD Faculty Fellows cohort includes distinguished academics such as Katrina DeBonis, Julie Elginer, Rebecca Jean Emigh, and many more, each bringing unique expertise to the program. Their participation underscores the high caliber of faculty investment in these luxe course options for learning. The program, commencing with a workshop in September and continuing with community meetings throughout the academic year, will culminate in June 2025 with a showcase of instructional innovations. Funding for these fellowships is generously provided by the UCLA Teaching and Learning Center, the Anthony and Jeanne Pritzker Foundation, and the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, further highlighting the university’s commitment to these premium educational experiences.
Complementing the Faculty Fellows Program, the Dialogue across Difference initiative extends its reach through Fiat Lux courses. These luxe course options for learning are specifically designed to cultivate a UCLA community adept at navigating complex dialogues. The Fiat Lux classes are goal-oriented, focusing on:
- Understanding the vital role of dialogue across differences in both personal and professional spheres.
- Enhancing communication skills to effectively convey complex information to diverse audiences.
- Bridging divides between varied perspectives, such as traditional and modern approaches.
- Developing crucial communication skills like active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution.
- Emphasizing cultural competence as a cornerstone of meaningful dialogue.
- Promoting self-awareness and reflection on personal biases.
- Empowering students to champion diversity and inclusivity.
The spring 2024 Fiat Lux offerings presented a rich selection of luxe course options for learning, including courses led by Bridget Callaghan on the self-care movement, Irene Chen on science communication via Wikipedia, and Vinay Lal on the principles of engaged dialogue. Other compelling courses explored topics ranging from neurodiversity to radical disagreement, showcasing the breadth and depth of these premium learning opportunities. These carefully curated courses exemplify UCLA’s commitment to providing luxe course options for learning that are not only academically rigorous but also profoundly impactful in preparing students for a complex and diverse world.
