GOVERNMENT
Course Level: Undergraduate/Graduate
Topics vary by section; may be repeated for credit with different topic. One-credit hour advanced workshops conducted by public affairs professionals are offered in specific public affairs areas such as grass roots lobbying; coalition building; and lobbying on the Internet. Usually offered every term. Prerequisite: GOVT-110 or GOVT-620.
Course Level: Undergraduate/Graduate
Topics in Public Affairs and Advocacy (1)
Internet in Advocacy Campaigns
This course covers strategies and tactics for using the internet and other network technologies to influence the formation of public policy. The course explores how to incorporate these technologies into campaigns to educate the public on current policy initiatives, mobilize grassroots action, and directly engage policy influencers (policymakers, press, policy professionals, bloggers, online organizers, and social network influencers). Students produce a group campaign plan to present to the class.
Course Level: Undergraduate/Graduate
Topics in Public Affairs and Advocacy (1)
Managing Advocacy Campaigns
As the lobbying profession matures, the skills and understanding this practice requires expands and becomes more sophisticated. The spectrum of lobbying techniques has dramatically evolved over the past twenty-five years. Whereas previously the main focus of lobbyists was direct personal contact with key public officials or staff, today major advocacy campaigns call on a variety of available techniques that go beyond direct contact. These might include grassroots organizing, using paid and earned media, and sending direct mail. These campaigns not only bring to bear the most sophisticated lobbying tactics available, but they also have to be guided by carefully thought-out strategies.