Document Type
Article
Abstract
This paper examines the construct of community: its nature, ontological significance, and role in society, as well as determining factors in community fragmentation and the role constructive dialogues can play in community building. With this knowledge, a campus conversation was orchestrated to explore students’ perceptions of our community and wicked problems confronting our world.
Students were asked the ways in which they engage with their communities, what barriers they identify as inhibiting community cohesion, and potential paths for progress. Challenges with orchestration as well as student responses are discussed.
This paper concludes that, among this demographic, there is very little emphasis on engagement in geographic communities, and little thought on the concept of community as a whole. Despite challenges faced, continuation of conversational opportunities should be prioritized as participants learn the importance of community engagement while simultaneously acting as participants in community building.
Recommended Citation
Rhyne, Jessica and Marlow, David
(2022)
"Difficult Dialogues: Toward Building Community Through Conversation,"
University of South Carolina Upstate Student Research Journal: Vol. 15, Article 8.
Available at:
https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/uscusrj/vol15/iss1/8
Included in
Critical and Cultural Studies Commons, Interpersonal and Small Group Communication Commons, Social and Cultural Anthropology Commons, Social Influence and Political Communication Commons