What is IGD?

IGD or Intergroup Dialogue offered by the Office of the Dean of Students and the Department of Educational Psychology is available to all undergraduate students at the University of Texas at Austin.

There are two classes that are offered to students who are interested in learning more about issues related to diversity, social justice, and intercultural education.

If you are interested in either of these Intergroup Dialogue classes please register!! For more questions or if you have trouble registering, please contact us at igdialog@www.utexas.edu or (512) 471-9700.

The following are descriptions of the classes offered:

EDP 210 Intergroup Dialogue

Intergroup Dialogue is a class taught by students for students that explores social identities that are defined by gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, physical ability and age, with a specific focus on one particular identity. In class through discussion of reading materials and experiential exercises, students examine similarities and differences among and across groups, and strive to gain a deeper understanding of individual and group identity, diverse perspectives, and the experiences of specific social groups. Any UT-Austin undergraduate student, regardless of academic major, social identities and level of knowledge about diversity issues, is welcome to register for this class. Students are required to complete assigned readings, write weekly journals, and complete a final paper, as well as actively attend and participate in every class.

The course structure is comprised of a variety of interactive elements including but not limited to class discussions, activities, etc. that will be centered around issues of race and racism for Fall 2009. While this is still somewhat general of an explanation it is really an experience that is difficult to put into words but one that is very impactful!

EDP 369K Training Processes in Intergroup Dialogue

EDP 369K is a unique class that is designed to provide foundational skills and knowledge needed to facilitate multicultural group interactions, particularly intergroup dialogues. Topics include basic group facilitation skills; social identity and group development; prejudice and stereotyping; privilege and oppression; intergroup communication; conflict intervention; and community building techniques.

You will have the opportunity to expand your own self-awareness, and potentially have an impact on the identity development and multicultural understanding of other students. Through the training course, you will develop valuable life skills in communication, group dynamics, teamwork, facilitation, and other valuable areas. If you are looking for ways to make a difference at the University of Texas at Austin, then this may be the very opportunity for you.