An assignment focuses on introducing students to the complexities involved in rendering a decision concerning the First Amendment to the Constitution. During the first week of classes, students are asked to read the introductory sections to the topic-specific chapters in "Freedom of Speech in the Marketplace of Ideas" by Fraleigh and…

Twelve methods to enhance the learning of college students and at the same time increase their oral communication skills and classroom participation are presented. They include: facilitators of class discussions, triadic critiques of students' essays, panel discussions, forum periods, debates, and manuscript reading. (JMD)

Suggests that professors who want to increase students' participation and foster student involvement should employ panel debates in their classes. Outlines the background readings and organization steps required to set up a panel debate. Reviews literature relating to the use of student debates in sociology instruction. (DSK)

Discusses the use of classroom debate as a teaching resource which generates argumentation and, hence, new ideas. Advocates the use of debate to increase student involvement and commitment to a topic. Describes case construction, debate protocol, and student evaluation procedures. (GEA)

One way in which communication educators can effectively build students' critical thinking skills is by incorporating argumentation techniques into classroom discussions and assignments. The following argumentation skills are particularly suitable in helping students learn to think more critically. The first technique is the presentation of…

This curriculum unit focuses attention on the evolving relationship the United States has with the emerging East Asian giant, China. Developed by the Choices for the 21st Century Education Project, Choices material places special emphasis on the importance of educating students in their participatory role as citizens. The unit considers the global…

Techniques for providing variety and effectiveness within the lecture format are described, including the oral essay, participatory lecture, problem-solving approach, alternating mini-lectures and discussions, modeling analytical skills, debate, simulation and role-playing, and the affective/emotional media lecture. (MSE)

Describes the use of debate in teaching a college level course on the psychology of women. Contends that the technique encouraged critical thinking, active learning, and cooperation. Provides suggestions for replicating the process in other courses. (CFR)

Presents techniques for encouraging peer learning in the college classroom. Discusses icebreaking exercises, ways to encourage total participation, and methods for dealing with grade anxiety. Argues that, with peer learning, students learn to develop their own resources for learning. Urges testing that calls for application of theoretical…

Describes the experiences of one high school class as they attempted to sort out the conflicting representations of Christopher Columbus. The students examined several textbooks and other histories. They then conducted a mock trial to determine if Columbus should be considered a criminal, a hero, or both. (MJP)

Suggestions to help faculty discover ways of achieving interactive, investigatory, and intimate learning environments in large settings are provided. The instructional objective is to empower students to take responsibility for their own learning. (MLW)

Presents a lesson plan designed to increase students' participation in the electoral process and help them to create their own political opinions. Students examine political advertisements, candidate debates, and political cartoons. Includes tips on "How to get the most out of a debate" and suggested further activities. (MJP)