In an increasingly divided world, the need for civil and open discourse is more apparent than ever. It is critically important that students learn how to meaningfully engage while learning how to analyze different perspectives and respectfully respond to dissenting opinions; however, it can be challenging for teachers to do so in a way that preserves a classroom space that remains safe and productive for all.

This four week course aims to help educators create more meaningful conversations by utilizing the tools typically found when preparing for competitive debate. While this course will review the theory and application of each topic within the world of debate, the primary focus is to identify specific strategies that can be used within a variety of classroom settings.

At the end of this course, participants will have a toolbox that they can use when unpacking complex, nuanced and (often) politically charged topics within the classroom. In addition, this course will review strategies for how teachers can build strategies for unpacking bias, exploring identity, and creating authentic engagement opportunities for students.

Note: Graduate credit for this course is available through Immaculata University. Participants that choose the graduate credit option will also receive 3 CPE Credits.

Drop Policy: Course fee is non-refundable once you have been invited to the course.

Making an Impact: Building Positive Relationships with Your Students" is designed for teachers K-12 to become familiar with different ways to create healthy student/teacher relationships through effective communication. Strong and healthy relationships can promote better student learning and increase their overall performance. This course will focus on how to communicate effectively, how to provide a friendly, successful, and productive learning environment, using your words to influence, effective questioning techniques, how to motivate students and give them a desire to learn, to ensure the right climate for learning, become more aware of your verbal and non-verbal cues, using your voice effectively, and most importantly to engage your students so they look forward to your classroom and want to work for you. It is extremely important that students want to listen to you. A bond between a teacher and student can go beyond the classroom and last a lifetime.

Required Text: The text will include the e-book "Effective Classroom Communication Pocketbook" by Richard Churches, to help further our understanding of the importance of student/teacher relationships. This can be purchased through Google Play, or at ebooks.com and vitalsource.com for $9.99 - $12.99.

Graduate Credit: Graduate credit for this course is available through Immaculata University. Participants that choose the graduate credit option will also receive 3 CPE Credits.

Drop Policy: Course fee is non-refundable once you have been invited to the course.