First Annual Conference on Urban Debate Education & Activist Pedagogy

Dr. Michael T. Heaney
University of Michigan, Organizational Studies and Political Science

Dr. Ian Robinson
University of Michigan, Sociology

Dr. Kelly Young
Wayne State University, Communications

October 9-10, 2010
Palmer Commons, University of Michigan

Detroit Urban Debate Education is proud to announce a conference to promote and recognize the scholarship of academics and students on wide-ranging topics of policy debate, urban education, activist pedagogy, educating for social justice and experiential learning. The contribution of academics to the success of empowering educational programs and curriculum is often under-recognized in activist strategies, even as those social research initiatives provide a crucial foundation for demonstrating that not only are such methodologies liberating, but they provide tangible results in student performance and future success. This conference will to provide a forum for scholars engaged with issues surrounding educational inequality, with a focus on liberationist debate praxis, such as switch-side argument, role-playing, critical citizenship, and seeks to promote discussion of innovative strategies for a pedagogy of social change.

Call for Abstracts: We encourage submissions on a diverse range of topics and disciplines, policy debate, urban education and activist pedagogy, with a preference for interdisciplinary approaches. Please send 250-word abstracts to detroitdebate@gmail.com no later than September 20, 2010. Space is limited and we will consider abstracts on a rolling basis, so submit early!

Conference Fees: Faculty: $150, Professionals: $75, Students: $50.

All conference proceeds will go to support urban debate programs.
Waivers will be granted for those with financial need.