Teaching in Higher Ed
Equip Students to Dialog Across Differences Using an AI Guide
Mar 6, 2025
Simon Cullen, a faculty member at Carnegie Mellon University known for his 'Dangerous Ideas' course, and Nicholas DiBella, a postdoctoral fellow focusing on reasoning and uncertainty, discuss how to empower students to engage in constructive dialogue across differences. They introduce their neutral AI tool, Sway, aimed at fostering respectful discussions around polarizing topics. Cullen emphasizes confronting strong opposing arguments while DiBella highlights the importance of reflection in tough conversations, all aimed at enriching the educational experience.
49:42
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The Sway platform leverages AI to facilitate respectful, constructive dialogues among students with differing perspectives across challenging topics.
- Cullen and DiBella stress the importance of fostering a mindset shift in students to engage rationally with opposing viewpoints.
Deep dives
The Importance of Dialogue Across Differences
Engaging students in constructive dialogues about polarizing topics can enrich their educational experience. In this context, Simon Cullen developed the Dangerous Ideas in Science and Society course, which encourages students to confront and discuss controversial issues. This course addresses the cultural climate surrounding speech on campus, revealing many students feel unable to voice their opinions freely. By providing a structured space for discussion, Cullen's initiative allows students to explore arguments on all sides, fostering a richer understanding of complex subjects.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
