COMS 1120 - Argumentation and Debate

4.5 Credits

Students will experience a practical approach to the rudiments of argumentation and debate. This course tests the students’ ability to critically research, listen, speak, think, and argue in intelligent, logical discourse. Students are able to understand and apply the art of debate by the end of the course.

Prerequisites: (1) ENGL 1020 or PHIL 1100 , or COMS 1110

Lecture Hours: 4.5
Lab Hours: 0.0
Internship Hours: 0.0
Clinical or Practicum Hours: 0.0

Course Objectives

Learn and use the vocabulary of argumentation and to learn significant components of argument theory.
Apply argumentation concepts to develop reasonable arguments that enhance their critical thinking and communication skills in a variety of contexts.
Conduct research using a variety of difference sources (newspapers, magazines, books, scholarly journals, etc.) to locate evidence necessary to support a claim.
Analyze and critically evaluate evidence.
Articulate arguments in both essay and written brief formats that use a variety of in-depth examples and evidence, are logically sound, and use effective organization techniques.
Present a fully developed oral argument that demonstrates students’ ability to prioritize material, utilize evidence, and refute claims.
Collaborate with peers to discuss social and political relevancies.
Develop useful argumentation and debate strategies in a variety of settings including classrooms, meetings, workplace, public forums, and so on.

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