May 21, 2026
When faculty and staff are better prepared to navigate conflict, it’s students who experience the difference.
IGR's approach to dialogue creates understanding and community across differences at the University of Michigan and beyond.
What is dialogue?
(Source: IGR Insight #1)
Dialogue
Dialogue is a form of communication different from discussion and debate. Through it, we seek to increase understanding among people and groups who have differing experiences, opinions, and ideas.
Intergroup dialogue
Intergroup dialogue is a specific style of interactive communication that seeks shared understanding of the roots of people’s ideas, rather than casual exchange of ideas or debate.
HOW INTERGROUP DIALOGUE WORKS AT U-M
IGR pioneered the Michigan Model of Intergroup Dialogue, a four-stage process focused on exploring a specific social identity category (race, gender, etc.). Members from two or more social identity groups (people of color, white people, etc.) meet regularly over a period of time to explore new perspectives and ways of understanding with the goal of addressing issues of discrimination, oppression, and social inequity.
Dialogue for students
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Opportunities for faculty and staff
IGR offers programming and professional development to staff at the University of Michigan and across the country.
- U-M staff/faculty: Intro to Dialogic Pedagogy and Practice seminar, Intergroup Dialogues for Faculty & Staff, and Dialogic Facilitation Training
- Higher ed leaders: National Intergroup Dialogue Institute, facilitator training, and consultations

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More dialogue at Michigan
IGR works alongside experts and trusted partners to support and expand dialogue at the University of Michigan.
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