Strategies for Engaging in
Dialogue Across Difference
Interrupting Bias: The PALS Approach
This is a methodology to use when you hear someone say something that may be problematic or hurtful to a specific group of people or yourself. The objective of this approach is to stay connected with the person and speak your truth clearly.
Pause/Halt/Slow the conversation
Interrupt the flow of the conversation and let the speaker know you are interested in learning more about something they said – “Wait a second..”
Acknowledge/Ask
Ask for clarification, get curious, make sure you understand what the person said – “What I hear you saying is…”
Listen to what the person said
Practice engaged listening in which you truly try to understand the meaning of what is being said.
Speak your truth/Share stories
Share your experience and/or learning. Tell stories, as they are shown to be more effective than data at reaching hearts and minds
How to Apologize:
Re-AACT
Reflect – listen to what others are saying is the harm done
Acknowledge responsibility for your actions
Apologize and DO NOT explain your intent
Change your behavior
Thank them for bringing this to your attention
Interested in participating in MSU Dialogues?
Faculty & staff applications will open soon!
Email Jackie Heymann at heymannj@msu.edu to among the first to receive the application as soon as it opens.