Learn to facilitate dialogue that effects change

Through a series of 10 courses that combine theory with practice, you’ll learn to design engagement opportunities that involve people in decisions that affect them, helping them define problems; search for solutions; and improve policies, programs and services. You'll also learn how to ask key questions: Whom should we invite? What are the risks? How do we choose the best engagement method?  

We’ve designed this program for people working in a wide range of contexts who are tasked with engaging others and would like to foster understanding and achieve lasting outcomes. Whether you’re working on a contentious land-use project, a youth engagement initiative, or a key policy change in your organization, this program will help you frame the issues, build a shared understanding, and take action that leads to positive change.

In the practicum component of the program, you’ll put what you've learned into practice by designing and implementing your own engagement project in the community, organization or workplace environment of your choice. Examples might include developing a strategic plan for your organization, convening a large-scale public dialogue on a contentious policy issue or implementing a strategy to increase youth engagement in your community. You’ll be mentored by one our instructors and receive support and feedback that will help your engagement plan succeed.