Wednesday, March 22, 2017 – Facts Matter!
A Guide to Critical Thinking
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- The difference between facts and opinions.
- The difference between claims and arguments.
- The importance of the scientific method.
- Common rhetorical devices designed to mislead.
- How to recognize and avoid logical fallacies.
- How to make ethical arguments.
- The problems of confirmation bias and cognitive dissonance.
- Key resources for fact checking political claims.
- How to talk to someone who disagrees with you.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017 – Real News vs. Fake News:
Know the Difference!
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- What is fake news? What isn’t fake news?
- The danger of fake news.
- The political deployment of the “fake news” label.
- The role of the media in U.S. politics.
- How to spot fake news sites and stories.
- How to verify facts before spreading fake news.
- How to call out fake news and keep your friends.
- The difference between news and satire.
Wednesday, April 5, 2017 – Contacting Elected Officials:
Influencing the Decision Makers
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- How to identify your elected officials.
- How to identify decision makers.
- Strategies to make your voice heard.
- Dealing with social anxiety.
- Phone calls, letters, emails, and petitions.
- Lobbying and personal meetings.
- Creative ways to share your message.
- What to do when you can’t get through.
Wednesday, April 12, 2017 – The Legislative Process:
Influencing Local, State, and National Policy Debates
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- How a bill becomes a law – U.S. Congress.
- How a bill becomes a law – Indiana General Assembly.
- How and when you can influence legislation.
- How to track legislation.
- How to read a bill for yourself.
- How to access public meetings, hearings, and floor debates.
- How to stay up-to-date on bills that matter to you.
- How to participate in city and county policy debates.
- How to write your own laws!
Wednesday, April 19, 2017 – Protest 101:
Making Your Voice Heard
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- How to organize a protest.
- How to attract participants.
- How to craft a message.
- How to gain media coverage.
- How to protest safe and legally.
- How to stay out of jail.
- The principles of non-violence.
- Cell phone guide for protestors.
- How to make a difference if you cannot attend.
Wednesday, April 26, 2017 – Solving Community Problems:
A Step-by-Step Guide to Civic Leadership
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- Defining the problem
- Identifying the decision maker
- Gauging public support
- Persuading the decision maker
- Building coalitions
- Using the calendar
- Engaging the media
- Funding your initiative
- The 3-3-3 advocacy method for real results
- Preserving victory and learning from defeating