Student Leadership Workshop

 

"Preparing Students for Global Leadership: Essential Skills for Engaging Religious Diversity and Spirituality"

A Collaborative Program of the University of Waterloo and
The Education as Transformation Project at Wellesley College


The existence of religious diversity in our world is a fact, and its significance for peaceful global co-existence is clear. But in addition to the variety of religious traditions, a new phenomenon has emerged among students in higher education and in the culture at large. It is often expressed as “I’m not religious but I’m spiritual.” These are the people in whose lives traditional religion has been missing or has not served adequately.

Both religious diversity and non-traditional spirituality are the focus of much discussion. These are sensitive topics, however. In a structured institutional setting, such discussions are best handled through skillful facilitation. Many professional educators shy away from approaching these topics, feeling unprepared for the emotions and controversies they may kindle. Faculty and staff need preparation for leading sensitive discussions, and students who are looking toward the possibility of leadership careers would be well served by having exposure to the understandings, skills and attitudes required for effective dialogue. Such leaders need to be reflective practitioners, skilled at facilitating both self-reflective practice and dialogue amongst diverse others.

This workshop provides an initial, intensive training for students preparing for leadership and for interested faculty and staff. Advanced training is available for those who wish to continue. It is our hope that a growing number of students, faculty and staff will become proficient in the skills of interfaith dialogue and exploring spirituality, and will go on to provide the leadership needed for growth in this area. 

Presenters: Peter Laurence, Executive Director, the Education as Transformation project at Wellesley College; Diana Denton, Professor, Drama and Speech Communication Department at the University of Waterloo, Ontario.

 

Workshop Schedule
9:00 a.m.
9:15
9:30
10:00
10:30
10:45
12:00
1:00 p.m.
2:15
2:30
3:45
4:45 
5:00		 Introduction
Reflection
Introductions -- identify needs, expectations for the day
Contemplative Listening
Break
Session on Dialogue
Lunch
Session on Small Group Process
Break
Session on Small Group Facilitation
Dialogue Practice
Reflections on the day, Closing Remarks
Adjourn

The three major topics are 1) self-reflection, 2) understanding the process of dialogue, and 3) developing small group facilitation skills. A workbook will be provided for each participant. We would need about a dozen students who are able to devote an entire day. Staff are also welcome to attend.

Expected Outcomes

Participants will gain in:

  • An understanding of religious diversity and spirituality
  • A deeper sense of their own religious/spiritual lives
  • An understanding of the process of dialogue
  • A sensitivity to interaction across differences, particularly in the use of language
  • The ability to function as a member and as the leader of a dialogue group

 

For further information contact: