Our workshops emphasise the use of immersive and interactive pedagogical tools, developed from years of research, data, and state-of-the-art technology. These cutting-edge methods ensure that participants achieve the desired learning outcomes effectively and engagingly.
Scroll down to learn more about the innovative tools and activities we use to enhance participants' learning experience.
Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) in reducing unconscious bias, particularly through perspective-taking, which leads to increased empathy for others. Our programme offers a VR experience which incorporates immersive scenarios depicting microaggressions and instances of prejudice at the workplace, providing a simulated yet realistic environment. Following the VR experience, participants will engage in guided small-group discussions to process the experience and reflect on their emotions.
The programme utilises biometric sensors to provide an objective analysis of individuals' physiological responses to specific stimuli. Activities that incorporate eye-tracking will enable participants to recognise and understand the influence of stereotypes and biases on their judgement and decision-making processes. Additionally, our programme utilises other biometric sensors, such as electroencephalogram (EEG), electrocardiogram (ECG), and Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) to measure brain activity, heart rate and rhythm, and skin conductance, respectively. These biometric tools, combined with proven dialogue techniques, empower participants to navigate challenging conversations, defuse tensions and foster mutual understanding effectively.
The programme employs meticulously curated and validated psychological measures, such as the Implicit Association Test (IAT). Developed by Harvard University, the IAT is a tool that facilitates self-discovery and awareness of our unconscious biases. Such biases are inherent in all individuals and are acquired through our social interactions and experiences. Gaining insight into our unconscious biases will enable us to be more mindful and sensitive in interactions with people of diverse backgrounds.
Role-play is a highly successful method used in a wide variety of fields, such as behavioural therapy, education, conflict mediation, and restorative justice. Our programme provides a participatory skit where the audience is invited to be actively involved in intervening in a scene depicting microaggressions. Role-play provides a safe environment for participants to explore and formulate alternative and new responses to common everyday instances of microaggressions. By learning and applying the concepts of allyship into action in role-playing, this activity emphasises cognitive empathy and guides the audience to be more reflexive and reflective on the impact of their everyday actions in fostering an inclusive space.
Fireside chats offer participants an informal and intimate setting to discuss sensitive issues regarding race, religion and intergroup cohesion. Leading experts in the field will be invited to host these sessions. Such chats aim to establish a sense of connection and trust between the speaker and the audience, fostering a relaxed atmosphere conducive to open communication. Rather than a one-way lecture/seminar style of delivery, fireside chats often involve audience interaction and questions from the audience. This creates an inviting space for meaningful dialogue, reflection and community building.
Through careful curation of various small group activities, such as Culture Box, The Ally in Me, and our in-house developed card game, Values U-Know, a safe and brave space is created to facilitate participants' comfort in sharing their personal experiences during the workshop. This enables them to develop and practice dialogue tools in a safe environment. A pivotal aspect of the programme is the emphasis on dialogue over debate. Additionally, our skilled facilitators will lead guided discussions following each activity, allowing participants the time and space for introspection. These sessions aim to facilitate personal revelations and breakthroughs while fostering new bonds and connections between participants.
