NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think about? What would you want to learn more about?

SUMMARY

In his second term, President Trump has waged an all-out war on higher education. But a new book by Princeton University President Christopher Eisgruber argues that despite criticism, colleges and universities are meeting the moment when it comes to permitting free speech on campus. Geoff Bennett sat down with Eisgruber to discuss “Terms of Respect: How Colleges Get Free Speech Right.”

View the transcript of the story.

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Key terms

WARM-UP QUESTIONS

1. How has President Trump tried to transform colleges and universities?
2. Who is Christopher Eisgruber, and what is his background?
3. Why are college campuses creating good environments for free speech, according to Eisgruber?
4. What are some of the actions college and university leaders can take to protect free speech on campus, according to Eisgruber?
5. Where are some of these respectful debates and protests happening, according to Eisgruber?

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS

• How do you think schools such as colleges can protect free speech rights, including protest, while also protecting student safety and learning environments?
• Do you think attitudes toward free speech have changed in your lifetime? If so, how?

Media literacy: Examine the infographic below. Why do you think this fact was cited in the segment? What other data would you want to better understand the current climate of free speech on campuses?

WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO

How can you create conditions for respectful debate within a classroom? First, check out the Dignity Index! You can start with this resource that suggests ways to lower the temperature of debate, including online. After reading, make your own list as a class. What rules for discussion do you think would work best to preserve respectful conversations?

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