Social-Emotional Learning Resources for Deliberations

Deliberative discussion about contested public issues can be a stressful experience. Discussion participants are asked to share opinions about and eventually search for consensus around a controversial topic. Sometimes, discussion participants come into the deliberation having very different and very strong views about the topic. Some participants may even have deep personal connections to the topic, which can then make the discussion even more delicate.

Integrating effective social-emotional learning practices into Street Law’s Deliberation format and facilitation techniques supports students in developing the skills and competencies to engage in difficult, yet necessary, discussions.

This learning resource includes the following:

• SEL Mini-Lessons: These three short mini-lessons on empathy, listening, and discussion norms support skill-building for key aspects of deliberative discussion.
• Ice Breakers for Small Groups: To support relationship-building, Street Law has put together several short, simple ice breakers that small Deliberation groups can complete prior to the Deliberation. These ice breakers are meant to build comfort and generate empathy prior to engaging participants in difficult discussion.

Deliberation teaches people how to discuss controversial issues by carefully considering multiple perspectives and searching for consensus. In preparation for deliberations, all participants read common, balanced background information on the issue. During the discourse, they offer arguments for each position on a contested public issue, first drawing from the text and then bringing in their own experiences.

• Read a detailed description of the Deliberation method.
• Our Deliberation Resource Bundle and Video includes several resources to help you successfully conduct deliberations in your classroom.