Modeling Empathy through Role Play: A Classroom Exercise to Deconstruct the Privileged and the Other

This classroom exercise has been designed, tested and modified among undergraduate students in organizational behavior and theory. The exercise is designed to have participants experience the challenges faced with relating to and empathizing with people from very different backgrounds and life experiences. It is designed to stimulate reflection and navigate through difficult conversations surrounding privilege and difference in the workplace. I provide clear theoretical background, objectives, role play scripts, discussion questions, reflection exercises, debriefing components, and instructor guidance.