Course description

Students learn the principles of argumentation and debate, including the difference between opinions and arguments, selecting persuasive reasons in support of claims, stakeholder analysis, discerning logical fallacies, framing, comparing impact claims (including ethical appeals), and effective research skills. Students will partner up with their classmates for in-class debates on timely topics. Students will also complete research-based advocacies as written assignments for the course. This course also includes one test, in an open-book (i.e. you can use your notes and consult the textbook) format. Students learn the principles of argumentation and debate. Topics emphasize Internet database research, synthesis of collected data, policy analysis of evidentiary quality, refutation of counter claims, identification of logical fallacies, risk evaluation, framing of issues, and coherent storytelling. Prepares students to work with a great range of opinion and evidence. Emphasizes different viewpoints, including those of different cultures. Assumptions are interrogated.

No upcoming classes were found.

Previously offered classes

The next offering of this course is undetermined at this time.

Student experiences

"This course was amazing; I wish it could have lasted longer. I learned so much about how to get my point across. Also, the entire class became friends."
Matthew Hoffman
"This was easily one of the best experiences of my life. I gained a broader way of thinking, since my class pushed us to question our assumptions. I also gained some college-life experience in a very independent environment and many good friends, who I can now go to for help and advice."
Joceline Perez