APLU Public Deliberation from Colorado State University on Vimeo.
Our Work
Our aim is to improve the way our community is able to talk through complex issues so that we can arrive at better decisions. Deliberation requires open spaces for citizens to come together, good and fair information to help structure the conversation and skilled facilitators to guide the process. The CPD is dedicated to providing these three key ingredients to Northern Colorado.
As an impartial resource, we’re able to assist local government, schools, and community organizations in problem-solving key issues. This means we start by researching and developing useful background material. Then we work with partners to invite those affected by the issue into the room. Our students are trained in small group facilitation and guide participants through these sometimes difficult conversations. From designing to facilitating to reporting on innovative public events, we rely on contemporary, relevant research from the fields of deliberation and communication studies.
Mission
Dedicated to enhancing local democracy through improved public communication and community problem-solving.
1. Enhance the local civic culture
Increase local participation in community problem solving
Decrease the sense of polarization, cynicism, and frustration with politics
Help develop a civic habit of relying on deliberation to address local concerns
2. Expand collaborative decision-making
Promote interconnections between local government and citizens
Expand and improve the role of the public in decision-making processes
Help incorporate deliberative techniques in local institutions
3. Improve Civic Education
Across K-12, higher education, and continuing education:
Study and improve methods of developing citizenship skills
Incorporate deliberative pedagogy
Learn More
Hear CPD Director, Martín Carcasson explain the work of the Center for Public Deliberation.