Room to speak your mind

This space is created so that you can become more confident in expressing your opinions, asking questions and speaking to and in front of others. As a student, you will learn how different perspectives can strengthen democracy, collaboration with others, and perhaps make you learn even more.

What is opinion diversity, really?

In society there are many different perspectives, values and opinions. As a student you will discover this in your study group, in a lecture or your family. This is what we call opinion diversity.

For a society to function well and be democratic, we are dependent on critical thinking. This often requires us to manage disagreement and discomfort surrounding it.

Why is this important?

When we are exposed to different opinions, we become better at tolerating and respecting others. In a democracy, principles of freedom of expression and formation an opinion are important cornerstones, and we need to encounter new perspectives in order to grow and learn.

Both as a student and later in employment, you are asked to solve various problems. To be able to do that, you need skills such as viewing an issue from several perspectives and being able to argue for and against a position in order to form a conclusion about the best way forward. This promotes learning and innovation.

More about opinion diversity

Grafisk element på hvorfor sier ingen noe

Pluralism

How to handle disagreement

When others say something you disagree with, or perhaps even find provocative, how can you deal with the situation without it ending in conflict? There is no one-size-fits-all formula for this, but it helps to have a generous and curious attitude towards other people’s opinions. One important tip: be aware of your own response patterns.

Pluralism

Improve your listening skills – and get more out of your studies

Active listening helps you understand others, ask better questions and contribute more constructively in group work and academic discussions. Here you will find simple, concrete measures you can put into practice straight away.

Pluralism

The Art of Asking Good Questions

Do you sometimes find it scary to ask questions? If so, you are not alone. In fact, 80 % of all students are more afraid of speaking in front of others than they are of dying.

Pluralism

How to handle presentation anxiety

Do you find it difficult to speak up and talk in front of others? Presenting in front of others is an important part of university, but it is completely normal to feel nervous. Psychologist Hilde Kaasa has put together some tips and advice that can help.

Pluralism

– Det å endre mening er å leve livet

– Gråtoner er sexy, sier Rose. Hun synes det er en uting når diskusjoner blir svart-hvite og gjør at folk ikke tør å si hva de mener i frykt for å bli stemplet.

Do you have something on your mind?

Please get in touch with us about disagreements, opinions, becoming a good listener, or if you simply miss content on diversity of opinion at usn.

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