Residence Hall Staff Training

Social Psychology in Community Settings

Social Psychology in Community Settings was developed by IGR, University Housing Residence Education, and the Department of Psychology. This course is provided exclusively for those students hired as staff in the University's residence halls. The course addresses the dynamics of intergroup relations in a diverse living environment and provides leadership skills for building inclusive multicultural communities. Course participants are divided into small group sections that meet weekly. These sections are co-facilitated by housing staff, psychology faculty, IGR staff, and student affairs staff from a variety of units. Small sections convene three times during the semester for large group sessions.

Content of the course includes:

• College student development and identity development theory
• Interpersonal and intergroup communication
• Conflict management
• Power and privilege in intergroup relations

Quotes from Residence Hall Staff Training Participants:

• "...I know that I will be more prepared to handle whatever might come my way now that I've been challenged to look within myself about issues such as sexual orientation, class, race, etc."

• "I leave this class comfortable with myself…and aware of my strengths and weaknesses…looking forward and ready to begin building my community in the residence hall."