PPM 570 - Policy Argumentation and Advocacy

This course is designed to teach students to communicate about public policy issues. We will examine speeches, editorials, opinion articles, and debates to learn how speakers and writers frame issues, adapt to specific audiences, choose language, structure arguments, and build a case to achieve persuasive communication. We will look at all sides of issues including those advocating for change as well as those defending current policies. This will be a hands-on course where students will practice writing letters to the editor and opinion columns as well as engaging in dialogue and debate about controversial issues. The theoretical basis for the course will rely upon theories from classical rhetoric and contemporary studies in argumentation as well as best practices in public relations.

Prerequisite(s):
Co-requisite(s):
Credits: 3

Course Typically Offered:
Course Type: Policy, Planning, and Management