Rollendialoge

Rollendialoge are structured dialogues in which participants assume predefined social roles and communicate through simulated interactions to explore perspectives, practice communication skills, or study social dynamics. The term is used chiefly in German-language educational and research contexts and is sometimes described as role-dialogues or role-play dialogues in translation.

Etymology and scope: The word combines Rolle, meaning role, and Dialoge, dialogues. In practice, Rollendialoge encompass a family of scenario-based exercises that may be conducted in classrooms, training programs, or digital environments. They emphasize role assignment, scenario goals, and guided turn-taking.

Design and methodology: Rollendialoge typically feature clearly defined roles with distinct objectives, prompts for each turn, and branching decision points. They can be implemented with paper scripts, classroom simulations, or computer-based systems, including conversational agents that enact one or more roles. Evaluation may track outcomes, learner reflections, or changes in attitudes.

Applications: They are used in language learning to practice pronunciation and pragmatics, in intercultural training to navigate cultural norms, in conflict resolution and negotiation education, and in user experience or chatbot design to explore how different personas respond to user queries.

Limitations and challenges: Effective Rollendialoge require careful role design to avoid stereotyping, ensure realistic interaction, and prevent superficial engagement. Facilitators or designers must balance structure with openness to emergent dialogue.

See also: role-play; scenario-based learning; dialogue systems.