CommonGround Workshops
Our CommonGround program is one way that student organizations, residence halls, Greek life, academic courses, and other campus communities can request programs that raise awareness about prejudice, stereotyping, power, privilege, and oppression. Facilitated and coordinated by trained U-M undergraduate and graduate students, these interactive workshops help promote social identity development and enhance group dynamics, while building a community of social justice advocates on campus.
Below is a sampling of frequently requested workshops. Workshops are designed around a 1.5 to 3 hour time frame and are customized to your group's needs. If you don't see a topic that interests you, please let us know and we can work with you to explore various opportunities. All workshops must be requested three weeks prior to the event.
CommonGround Workshop Topics:
Why Are All the ______ Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?
Discuss the phenomenon of segregation on college campuses and its complexities.
Communicating Across Identities
A closer look at how social identity can impact conflict and communication.
Understanding the Campus Climate
Explore how social identities impact the way students interact and how one can change the way the campus feels.
Redlining in the Metro Detroit Area
Engage in a powerful conversation about one of the most segregated metropolitan areas in the country.
Power and Influence in Groups
Look at the way social identities affect group dynamics and discuss strategies for effective teamwork.
Media Influence
Analyze the use of media messages and how they affect our own concept of social groups.
Action: Making a difference and becoming an Ally
Illuminate many misconceptions and realities of active participation.
The American Dream: A Conversation on Privilege
Understand “privilege” and “meritocracy” by utilizing an interactive board game.
Oppression Defined
Give meaning to the term “oppression” and its impact on everyday life.
Socialization
Explore the ways that we’ve been socialized by messages and how they affect us and society.
Stereotyping and Social Constructions/Assumptions
Examine the concept and consequences of stereotyping, and your assumptions of social issues.
Request a workshop for your organization!
Direct any questions towards -- IGRCommonGround@umich.edu
