Course Description
The theory and practice of democratic decision making, from researching a topic systematically in specialized library sources to reaching a workable solution through group discussion. Second phase will involve theory and practice of debating and implementing decisions through parliamentary procedure.
Athena Title
Oral Decision Making
Semester Course Offered
Offered every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
A. To improve student skills in finding and using library information for problem-solving. B. To create understanding in students of the theory and practice of human leadership. C. To acquaint students with the theory and practice of solving problems through democratic processes. D. To make students into more effective participants of ordinary societies operating by parliamentary procedure. E. To produce individuals with the skills to serve as parliamentarians for ordinary society, both while still in college and after graduation. F. Students will complete research assignments which will involve computer-based research and paper preparation. G. Students will consider the moral and ethical implications of a variety of communication situations.
Topical Outline
Evidence Sources Library Use The 6-Step Discussion Process Leadership Motions, Bylaws Notice of Meetings and Proposals, Meetings, Quorum, Order of Business, Debate, Votes Required for Valid Actions, and Methods of Voting Nominations and Elections, Officers, Committees and Boards, and Committee Reports and Recommendations Conventions and Their Committees, Minutes, Rights of Members and Organizations: Finances, Legal and Classification of Organizations, Functioning Under Robert's Rules of Order This course focuses on active learning and most assessments are of end-products and processes during active learning assignments. 1) 1-2 presentations of visualized data (instructor feedback and scored; individual assignment) 2) 1 presentation of visualized data (peer feedback-focused; individual assignment) 3) 1-2 decision-making discussions (instructor feedback and scored; small group assignment) 4) 1 peer-feedback and instructor-judged participation in formal parliamentary decision-process (focus is both on data presentation, analysis, integration and assessment and on parliamentary skills) 5) 5-10 quizzes over readings on course topics, including data quality, data integration, group decision-making, leadership, and parliamentary procedure 6) final exam: create, analyze, and explain format
Syllabus