The Hayward Great Debate is a collaboration between community, college, and citizens. ​We strive for "community through advocacy", the belief that we can build better connections through strong discussion, good listening, and open, honest, and civil debates of ideas.

​This approach to teaching focuses students' course reading, class discussion, and research efforts on contemporary public issues and places students in dialogue with diverse campus and community members. In public sphere settings, students encounter opportunities to behave as adult participants in processes of dialogue and debate vital to the health of a democracy. 

For more information about public sphere pedagogy, please visit our friends at Chico State: 

The Great Debate is not just about debate, though. Our event holds town-hall style meetings, public speeches, group forums, and other types of presentations. If you're interested in participating, we can most likely accommodate your needs. We hope you can join us.  
Are you interested in joining us? E-mail the Director of the HGD, Professor Jason Ames at james@chabotcollege.edu