We’re helping students communicate & think critically and analytically.
Our country needs critical thinkers and productive citizens—young Americans who approach complex issues with an open mind, who treat differing viewpoints with respect and curiosity, and who contribute meaningfully at school, in the workplace, and out in society. In this age when government and current events touch every part of our lives, true civic education must move beyond memorizing facts and towards competency-based education and the development of durable skills.
Close Up has developed the Civil Discourse Credential on that principle. Based on our 50+ years of experience in working with young people from all backgrounds, the credential guides high school students through exercises, activities, and experiences to develop highly needed durable skills such as critical thinking, communication, media and AI literacy, and the ability to productively engage with multiple perspectives.
The credential focuses on competencies in three domains: Analyzing Political and Social Issues; Communicating Across Difference; and Digital Citizenship and Media Literacy. 
