Dialogue training by Noelle Aarts

On June 7, Noelle Aarts, professor of Socio-Ecological Interactions at Radboud University, presented a dialogue training workshop for consortium members of the WildlifeNL project. The workshop lasted half a day and took place at the Utrecht University.

Noëlle underpinned her energetic way of presenting with many recognizable real-life examples, images and a number of videos. As an assignment, participants shared an example from daily life and wrote out a reaction to a situation and discussed it together.  

There were eye-openers and a lot of recognition.

This dialogue training is an important basis for cooperation. Because the consortium consists of many different organizations and research cover many areas, we will undoubtedly have to deal with ‘assumptions’ in the discussions, be challenged to really listen to the other person’s perspective or unconsciously ‘frame’ them. 

Having a good conversation is a real art and requires awareness of your behavior. 

Fortunately, we were given a number of clear guidelines to keep handy. And a comprehensive digital reference book. Useful at work, in conversations about social issues but also for at the kitchen table at home.

 Good dialogue will take us further. Differences will always exist, but a good conversation prevents polarization and creates understanding. 

This blog is written by Sonja Meijer, communication manager WildlifeNL.