Exploring critical issues through in-depth dialogue

Following the success of the Unify Challenge College Bowl, students and educators asked for more — a deeper dive into a single topic and additional practice disagreeing better. Whether assigned as a standalone experience or as a follow-up to the College Bowl, the Deep Dive enables students to connect across institutions, engage in meaningful dialogue about pressing national issues, and develop essential civic skills.

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8.8

average rating from students (on a scale of 1-10)

97%

said their partner's ability to listen to and paraphrase was good, very good, or excellent

70%

said they are more confident about discussing complex issues with people who hold different views

72%

said they felt more empathy towards their partner

Data from the Fall 2024 Deep Dive survey (n= 1,491)

Building civic preparedness

In the Deep Dive, students get the chance to work the civic muscle groups necessary for discussing an important issue in depth.

Professor Jeff Wilson

“All of them said, I was really nervous about who I was gonna get paired with. And then almost all of them had an amazing experience."

Professor Leah A. Murray, Ph.D.

"This is the best way I’ve been able to do what I think is so important, which is getting young people to talk across all the differences."

Professor Clark Friesen

"Even some of the students who really disagreed (before) doing it...their responses were positive (after)."

Students practice…

Active Listening and Perspective Sharing: Students have the chance to hear and summarize each other’s personal experiences and points of view.

Critical Thinking and Analysis: The pairs review, evaluate, and discuss researched facts on the issue.

Self Evaluation: Students closely examine their own perspectives in light of new information and their partner’s follow-up questions.

Collaborative Problem Solving: Students work together to brainstorm solutions to pressing problems in America.

Explore more program details

QUICK OVERVIEW

Want to dive into civic skill-building with your class, club, or university?

Download the Deep Dive one-pager overview to learn more and share with your colleagues.

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Ready to learn more about the Deep Dive?

Schedule a 30-minute chat with our team to see how you can bring the Deep Dive to your classroom or institution.

FAQs

Don't see an answer to your question? You may also send us an email at events@unifyamerica.org, or schedule a meeting with us.

Schedule a meeting to learn moreExplore our FAQs

What are the dates for the Deep Dive?

For Spring 2025, participants can choose to dive into one of these three topics:
• Gun Ownership & Gun Violence (Tuesday, April 8)
• Free Speech & Hate Speech (Tuesday, April 15)
• Social Media & Mental Health (Thursday, April 17)
• All Three Topics (Tuesday, April 22)

The Deep Dive usually lasts about one hour, with two time slots available on April 8, 15, and 17, and three time slots on April 22.

I know it’s one topic per conversation, but how many topics are there?

There are currently three main topics, each addressing a different critical issue in American society. Participants will have the opportunity to explore these topics in depth during the scheduled sessions.

Do students get to choose the topic?

Yes! Students can choose the topic that is of the most interest to them.

Can students choose any date that works for them?

Yes…and no. Although they may pick any date and time, each date this season is reserved for a specific topic.

Who will my students be paired up with?

Our matching algorithm will pair your student with someone different. After choosing the topic, students will answer a qualifying question about the topic. When they are matched, they’ll be matched with someone who answered the opposite of said question. Students typically find some common ground (and that’s the beauty of it!).

Is it possible to change the date or time?

Very possible! Although, keep in mind that certain dates this fall are for certain topics. If students change their time on the same day, they’re good. If they change the date, then they’ll have to change topics.

How much time should students allocate?

Students should plan for approximately one hour. Conversations may be shorter or longer depending on mutual interest.

What if a student encounters a rude or insensitive partner?

While it's rare, if a student finds themselves matched with someone combative or disrespectful, they can utilize the "Need Help" button on their screen. The Unify staff is available for live support throughout the event. The student can also exit the conversation and contact us at events@unifyamerica.org for assistance.

Will students' contact information be shared?

No, we prioritize privacy. While some may choose to share contact information, it's entirely optional.

What technology setup is required?

Students will need a tablet, desktop, or laptop computer with a functioning camera and microphone, as the experience involves a video call. The Deep Dive is not compatible with mobile phones.