Students entering the State University of New York system this fall will be required to take a general education course focused on civic discourse and democratic participation, according to Spectrum News 1.
SUNY Chancellor John King said the requirement is intended to help students learn how to engage productively with people who hold different political views and values.
The courses will emphasize listening, discussing complex issues and understanding opposing perspectives rather than simply debating them.
King said SUNY also wants students to develop lifelong voting habits and have access to voting options whether they cast ballots near campus or from home.
The new requirement begins as colleges across the SUNY system welcome students back for the fall semester.
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