Course

20810202 Argumentation and Debate
Course Information
Description
Introduces students to the principles, practices, theories and concepts of argumentation and debate. Students learn how to define an issue, build a case for a position through effective use of reasoning, defend one's position from counterarguments, and the etiquette of civil argument. Students will explore the nature of critical thinking, reasoned decision-making, advocacy skills, and the role that controversy plays in culture.
Total Credits
3
Course Competencies (Course Outcomes)
  1. Analyze theories and forms of argumentation
    Assessment Strategies
    by applying the theory of forms of argumentation in written and oral communication
    Criteria
    identify, analyze and differentiate controversial issues of fact, value and policy
    define deductive and inductive forms of argument
    identify a given persuasive situation and message for motivational potential and for actual motivational appeals
    you orally critique, refute and rebut another's arguments

  2. Construct persuasive messages for given situations and issues
    Assessment Strategies
    by writing persuasive speeches
    by writing critiques of classmate's performances
    Criteria
    write persuasive messages that are: logically defendable, motivationally appealing, ethically acceptable to the student, culturally appropriate
    write peer evaluations that apply principles of argumentation to student presentations

  3. Use research-based evidence
    Assessment Strategies
    by writing persuasive speeches based on cited sources
    Criteria
    support propositions with evidence to create effective arguments
    research controversial issues to discover evidence
    use evidence to create a debate resolution out of a controversial issue
    research, prepare and rehearse messages prior to their delivery in the classroom
    judge credibility of sources and reliability of claims in supporting claims

  4. Evaluate the ethical implications of public argumentation
    Assessment Strategies
    by evaluating your own performance for the purpose of self-improvement (self-assessment)
    Criteria
    analyze and evaluate given examples of public argument for: structure, adequacy of proof, use of fallacious reasoning, strengths and weaknesses in logic
    conduct an audience analysis on a controversial issue
    demonstrate awareness of audiences' needs and expectations