Ground Rules for Just Talk discussions

• Listen actively -- respect others when they are talking.
• Speak from your own experience instead of generalizing ("I" instead of "they," "we," and "you").
• Do not be afraid to respectfully challenge one another by asking questions, but refrain from personal attacks -- focus on ideas.
• Participate to the fullest of your ability -- community growth depends on the inclusion of every individual voice.
• Instead of invalidating somebody else's story with your own spin on her or his experience, share your own story and experience.
• The goal is not to agree -- it is to gain a deeper understanding.
• Be conscious of body language and nonverbal responses -- they can be as disrespectful as words.*

Discussions of emotionally charged topics may lead you to need assistance with processing your feelings. Mental Health Services is available to help students at the UCCS Recreation and Wellness Center.

*These ground rules are based on the Guide for Setting Ground Rules for the EdChange project.

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