Practical tools for understanding diverse perspectives
The course combines theoretical insights with tools from the Transition Makers Toolbox, focusing on Deep Listening and Experiencing Interdisciplinarity. These tools help students analyse complex societal dynamics while fostering perspective-taking.
“Listening is just as important as telling,” says Bianca de Groot, co-developer of the course. Deep Listening teaches students to listen without interrupting or debating, allowing speakers to share their stories. To adapt this tool for the course, students were asked to tell a story inspired by a photo on their phone, practising uninterrupted storytelling. While some students found the exchange of personal stories uncomfortable, others embraced the opportunity to delve deeper, reflecting the emotional dynamics in their work with communities like those in Nieuw-West. Bianca shares:
Students appreciated sharing without being interrupted, as class discussions often provoke debates. The exercise helped them see the value of listening skills, which are often overlooked.
The bigger picture: the value of interdisciplinarity
Experiencing Interdisciplinarity teaches students to integrate diverse perspectives. Students created mind maps linking various fields and viewpoints by analysing polarisation through news articles and applying their academic disciplines.
“At first, students found this challenging,” Bianca notes, “but they soon realised how essential it is to view problems from multiple perspectives.” One student commented that this approach fundamentally changed how they conduct research, underscoring its importance for addressing complex issues.
From theory to practice: the impact of tools
The course culminates in a plan for using storytelling to bridge divides between polarised groups. Tools from the Transition Makers Toolbox provide guidance, blending perspective-taking and communication skills. This innovative module shows how education can inspire societal impact by equipping students with the tools to connect, listen and create change.
Bianca concludes: “I encourage other teachers to explore the Toolbox, experiment and adapt the tools to fit their courses. These exercises are valuable building blocks for fostering understanding and societal change.”
I really enjoyed this hands-on course because of the real-life cases, supportive atmosphere and interactive activities that made learning both insightful and enjoyable.
Learning outcomes
- Listening actively and fostering genuine dialogue.
- Understanding and managing emotional dynamics in diverse groups.
- Applying interdisciplinary perspectives to analyse complex issues.
- Using storytelling as a tool for social intervention to bring communities together.