Community Learning Series
Community
noun
1: a unified body of individuals
2: a social state or condition
3: society at large
The Community Learning Series (CLS)
The Community Learning Series (CLS) provides structured learning units to help coaches build inclusive team cultures and tournament environments, as well as consider ways to foster belonging in speech and debate.
The CLS consists of four units, each featuring a 45-minute video and a brief quiz. Completing each unit earns one hour of professional development.
Designed as a flexible, low-pressure, yet high-impact resource, the CLS is ideal for new coaches and judges starting their speech and debate journey, as well as experienced coaches seeking to refine their skills. Participants can complete the units at their own pace and join discussions for meaningful conversations on essential topics.
We invite you to participate in this opportunity to grow, connect, and contribute to a more inclusive speech and debate community.
About the Community Learning Series
Mission
The Community Learning Series (CLS) provides foundational communication strategies to help build inclusive and supportive communities within speech and debate.
Vision
A network of coaches equipped with the communication skills necessary to foster welcoming environments that encourage participation and retention on their speech and debate teams.
By participating in the CLS, you will:
- Develop the knowledge, awareness, and skills needed to engage effectively with diverse identities and perspectives.
- Learn strategies for fostering inclusive communities within teams, tournaments, and beyond.
- Identify personal biases, assumptions, and preconceived notions that may impact communication.
- Explore ways to promote culturally responsive ballots and create educational opportunities for first-time judges.
Unit Content
The Community Learning Series consists of four self-paced, one-hour units, each featuring a video and a quiz (available on NSDA Learn). Participants may complete individual units or all four, with each completed unit (except for the introductory module) earning a professional development certificate for one hour.
Topics for each unit are as follows:
