Preface

Welcome to a Civic Discourse Resource!

This resource is designed to support college and university faculty and staff in integrating the Civic Discourse Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) into their courses. The goal of this book is to provide clear guidance, practical tools, and scholarly resources that help students develop the skills needed to engage thoughtfully, respectfully, and ethically in civic life.

As emphasized in The State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr.’s January 7, 2025 press release, SUNY is introducing a civic discourse competency to ensure students can “demonstrate the discourse skills necessary to participate in civic life,” including reasoned inquiry, ethical advocacy, dissent, and dialogue. By preparing courses for this requirement, educators can equip students with the tools needed to navigate complex ideas, engage across differences, and contribute constructively to democracy.

Educating for democracy is more critical than ever. Civic discourse skills help students deliberate thoughtfully, advocate ethically, and engage constructively in disagreement. Doing so prepares students not only for academic success but also for active, informed participation in society. This initiative aligns with SUNY’s broader Civic and Service Agenda, which emphasizes that every graduate should be ready to meet real-world challenges with integrity and empathy.