Recent political and institutional shifts have accelerated the adoption of constructive dialogue and related frameworks on campus, but little is known about how these newer terms and approaches are received by different stakeholders. In this fluid environment, there is both a need and an opportunity to elevate the underlying values that connect frameworks like free expression, pluralism, civil discourse, and constructive dialogue, to safeguard them before they become politicized. The project aims to identify message framings that resonate broadly, can withstand polarization, and build resilience, equipping campus leaders with a menu of durable, values-based options for fostering connection across difference.
The grantee will conduct a mixed methods research project, fielding two quantitative surveys and engaging in 6 months of social listening and analysis which will help illustrate how people are learning about, experiencing, and talking about constructive dialogue and related issues on campus and find messages and frames that can resonate across wider audiences. The grantee will produce an internal-facing report summarizing their findings and recommendations.