Summer Session

Faculty Seminar

Freedom of Expression, Academic Inquiry, and Campus Discourse

Join the Parrhesia Program for Public Discourse at the University of Chicago for a faculty development seminar -Freedom of Expression, Academic Inquiry, and Campus Discourse.

The Parrhesia Program will host the seminar on the University of Chicago campus from June 4-8, 2023. Registration fees, lodging expenses, and most meals are covered. Participants will be reimbursed for up to $500 in travel expenses. Participants are responsible for additional travel expenses, two evening meals, and incidentals. 

Rationale and Approach

Academic inquiry depends on testing ideas through considering multiple perspectives and actively seeking and constructively engaging disagreement. The seminar examines principles of academic freedom of expression and provides methods for advancing productive conversations. Fostering inclusive communication about, with, and across difference and disagreement prepares students for academic inquiry and their personal, professional, and civic lives. Embedding communication practices in classrooms and campus life develops student ability to navigate contentious issues and conversations. The seminar identifies and models concrete methods to elevate and support classroom, campus, and civic discourse.

Seminar Schedule

The seminar begins on the evening of June 4th (Sunday) with a reception, dinner, and introductions. Seminar sessions generally run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a break for lunch. The seminar includes a field trip to institutions and organizations devoted to freedom of expression and democratic discourse. The seminar ends with lunch on June 8 (Thursday).

Seminar Leader

The seminar will be led by Leila Brammer, the inaugural director of the Parrhesia Program for Public Discourse. Leila led the development of a civic learning curriculum and public deliberation program that received multiple national recognitions, including the AAC&U Civic Learning in the Major by Design. Leila has a background in faculty development and has been recognized with several institutional, regional, and national teaching awards.

Application

To apply for the Seminar, please submit the application form.

If you have questions, please contact Parrhesia Summer Academy Coordinator, Sylvie Bendier (sbendier@uchicago.edu).

 

The Parrhesia Faculty Seminar is part of the Parrhesia Summer Academy, which offers a variety of seminars and courses for pre-college and undergraduate students, and high school and college faculty.