FAQ

Here are a few frequently asked questions about the University of the Streets Café. If you do not find an answer to your question here or would like to follow-up on one of the responses please do not hesitate to contact us at univcafe@alcor.concordia.ca

What is the University of the Streets Café?

The University of the Streets Café creates gathering places for citizens to pursue lifelong learning and engagement through public conversations.  These collective discussions are an opportunity for people of diverse backgrounds and realities to meet, in a respectful environment – where all perspectives are welcome!

What is a public conversation?

Generally University of the Streets Café public conversations are two-hour events held in cafés (occasionally in community centres, art galleries, public parks) that are free, accessible and open to the general public.  Each conversation focuses on a pre-determined theme and question, often conversations are grouped in a series around a particular theme, which each installment exploring a different aspect of the general theme,  A moderator (responsible for the structure and flow of the conversation), a guest (responsible for ‘getting the ball rolling’ of the conversation by presenting his/her perspective on the issue at hand), and interested community members (all ages, all backgrounds) make up the participants of each conversation.

Do I need to register for the conversations?

Most conversations do not require registration.  When a conversation does require advance registration it will be clearly indicated on all materials.

Where do the conversations take place?

The conversations are held in cafés, community centers, art galleries, and public parks that are free, accessible and open to the public.

Do I have to be a university student?

No. The cafés are open to all members of the community regardless of their education.  All perspectives are welcome.

Do the conversations require preparation?

No. The conversations do not require any formal preparation from the participants.  All that is asked of the participants is that they are genuinely interested attending the conversation.

Do I have to speak?

You are not required to speak.  Some participants speak up while others prefer to just listen. Reflecting on the conversation is just as important as expressing opinions.

How long are the conversations?

Typically, two hours in length.

Who are the moderators?

The moderators are trained community members responsible for the structure and flow of the conversation. 

Who are the guests?

The guest(s) are invited by the University of the Streets to present his/her perspective on the issue at hand.  The guest is often highly knowledgeable on or experienced with the topic. However, he or she is not there to “be” the conversation, but rather to get the conversational ball rolling on the specific theme.

Why conversations and not lectures?

Conversations create a different kind of learning experience: by creating an open space for conversation everyone is a learner (even the guest) and each person is also an expert and has a chance to share their perspectives, thoughts and questions.

What will I learn at the University of the Streets Café?

At the cafés, participants learn about various subjects.  However, at the end of almost any conversation what stand out more than factual learning is how challenging and inspiring it is to learn with a group ad make space for individuals who come at a topic with very different opinions, experience, and levels of expertise.

Will a get a certificate?

The University of the Streets does not issue diplomas, certificates or grades.

In what languages do the conversations take place?

Conversations are very informal, Montreal-style bilingual.  This means that each person is welcome to speak in either English or French – whichever language is the most comfortable to them.  If you don’t understand one of these languages, please let the moderator know before the conversation starts and we will try to buddy you up with someone who can translate.

How much does it cost to participate?

Nothing. All conversations, without exception are free.  However, donations are very appreciated.

How can I donate to the University of the Streets Café?

At each conversation, a fish bowl is present for cash donations and pledge cards are available for those people who wish to donate by credit card and receive a tax receipt. 

How many participants are present at each conversation?

As public conversations have such an ‘open invitation’ format (public space, open to everyone, free) it can be really hard to estimate attendance.  Typical conversations average an attendance of 20 to 30 people.

Are the conversations recorded?

We purposely do not podcast, webcast or record conversations because, in our experience, as soon as technology is introduced into public conversations it changes the spontaneous dynamic of the discussion and many participants will purposely not participate if they believe they are being recorded.

Can I volunteer?

With dozens of conversations each semester, the program needs some helping hands.  If you would like to get involved, here are some of the more pressing tasks: Translation, photography, preparing mailings, postering, room set-up, media outreach and fundraising.  New ideas are also welcome!

Can I suggest an idea for a conversation?

Yes. If you have ideas for future conversation do not hesitate to contact us. A brief outline by email is the most useful way of sharing your suggestions.

I would like to collaborate with the University of the Streets Café, is this possible?
Yes. Please submit your ideas by email.

Does the University of the Streets Café organize conversations for other groups or provide training?

If you would like to learn more about the conversational methodology or organize a public conversation for a specific group or as part of a larger event, the University of the Streets Café can provide consultation, coaching or training on public conversations.

I own/work for a great café, can we hold a University of the Streets Café conversation here?

The University of the Streets Café is always looking for new venues and to get involved in different neighbourhoods. Locations should easily accommodate groups of 30 to 50 people, be accessible by public transportation, free of charge, and preferably community-minded spaces. Contact us so we may visit the space.