Are you a Conservative? A Liberal? Perhaps a Moderate right down the middle?
The Ideology Lab is an experiential learning program that encourages participants to gain a deeper and more nuanced understanding of political ideologies and how they shape individual perspectives.
FAQs
What is the goal of the Lab?
The Lab is designed to engage participants from across the ideological spectrum who are interested in examining their own beliefs and understanding how those beliefs shape society. By the conclusion of the Lab, participants will have developed a stronger grasp of ideological history and greater confidence in articulating and defending their viewpoints, while remaining open to perspectives that differ from their own. At its core, the Lab’s mission is to foster constructive dialogue by encouraging active listening, mutual understanding, and the pursuit of common ground.
How is the Lab structured?
The Lab is a single session workshop divided into three parts: 1) Introduction and Review of Assessment Results, 2) Review of Ideological History, and 3) Dialogue-Based Activities. Each part is designed to be highly interactive and comes with several opportunities for participants to listen and learn from one another.
How does the Lab ensure that its content is accurate, credible, and free from ideological bias?
Our facilitating staff bring formal training in disciplines such as political science and public policy. Drawing on this expertise, we develop original content informed by highly reputable scholarly sources. All materials are rigorously reviewed by our Educational Review Committee to ensure historical accuracy, academic integrity, and the absence of ideological bias.
How long does the Lab last?
Labs are estimated to last between 3 to 3.5 hours. This includes all three workshop parts and two 10-minute breaks. It sounds like a long time, but we anticipate that the high level of interactivity will accelerate the time.
Who can participate in the Lab?
Anyone that is 18 years of age or older can participate in the Lab. We highly encourage people from different ideological backgrounds to consider joining a Lab when the opportunity arises. The effectiveness of this program depends heavily on the diverse perspectives of its participants and their willingness to share their points of view with others.
How often are Labs held?
For now, Labs are conducted only by request of a partner organization within the Impact Zone. If you would like to partner with us to bring a Lab to your organization, please fill out an interest form and a member of our staff with connect with you.
Program Team
Director of Education
Program Manager