This 3-volume handbook is based on Paolo Freire's work with popular education in the Third World. Part 1 covers theory (147 pages), part 2 addresses the skills necessary for participatory education (131 pages), and part 3 includes tools of analysis and vision, building a movement, management, and planning workshops (182 pages). (continue)

The Senate and House of Representatives are considering changes to current immigration law that will fundamentally change the rules on immigration. This resource presents four policy alternatives for U.S. immigration policy within the context of long-term goals for the country. Resources to facilitate deliberation on this issue are included. Links to additional materials are also available. The materials are produced for use in high school classrooms, and are easily adapted to public discussion. (continue)

An important debate is taking place in the United States concerning America's role in the world today. This material presents four distinct alternatives - or Futures - that frame the current debate. Resources to facilitate deliberation on this issue are included. Links to additional materials are also available. The materials are produced for use in high school classrooms, and are easily adapted to public discussion. (continue)

MI PsySR's US and THEM: The Challenge of Diversity program is a community education project which fosters positive tolerance. A presenter's manual, also called Us and Them, was designed for use by psychologists and other professionals interested in promoting intergroup understanding, reconciliation and cooperation. Includes lecture formats, overheads, exercises and discussion guides in three-ring binder for easy duplication. (continue)

Published in March 2010 and available for download from SlideShare, the 90-ish page Using Social Media to Increase Civic Engagement in U.S. Federal Agencies is a report for the FCC’s Broadband Taskforce, Civic Engagement Team. Archon Fung was the academic advisor for this paper, which was prepared by two Kennedy School grad students. http://www.slideshare.net/yasminfodil/social-media-and-civic-participation-final Here is the executive summary: Civic engagement is a critical element of our democratic process. It has many potential benefits for public policy professionals, including: creating public value in the form ... (continue)

Every day it seems there is more shocking news about young people killing, committing suicide, or doing both. If violence is a cry for help, what is it that children and teenagers need? How can individuals help reduce the violence? Like the other nonpartisan guides used for citizen deliberations in National Issues Forums, Violent Kids: Can We Change the Trend? can be used by the public, or by professionals who are looking for a quick orientation to a topic. (continue)

A guide to assist schools and program staff in facilitating dialogues on institutional racism with young people. (continue)

This guide translates complex evaluation research into actionable strategies needed to build stronger communities. What We Know Works is a primer that summarizes current research in four broad areas: healthy families and children, thriving neighborhoods, living-wage jobs, and viable economies. These are issues of paramount concern to citizens and of critical importance to the future of all communities. This resource provides a road map through the array of social service programs and a starting point to address discrete issues - from quality childcare to homelessness to downtown revitalization. (continue)

Shows readers how to form their own wisdom circles with friends and community members based on ten simple guidelines. The wisdom circle serves many purposes: it is a place to practice communication skills, to heal wounds, to find the courage to act upon that small voice within, to share a vision or define a mission. Readers learn how to open and close the circle, how to mutually agree upon a topic or intention, and how to create a safe space for truth telling. (continue)

This guide from Western Australia's Office of Citizens and Civics includes techniques and tools to help ensure that consultation processes are clear, fair and ultimately rewarding for all those involved. (continue)