How to Research Candidates and Ballot Initiatives

By Michael Dawson

Legal expert specializing in civil rights.

This course provides guidance on gathering information about candidates and ballot measures. Participants will learn how to evaluate campaign platforms, fact-check claims, and understand the potential impact of their votes.

Why It’s Worth It

Unlock real value — from fast results to long-term transformation.

Become an informed voter who understands candidate platforms and ballot initiatives, positively impacting your community.

Gain practical skills in fact-checking and validating political information, helping to combat misinformation.

Build a comprehensive research portfolio that showcases your analytical abilities and supports decision-making in future elections.

Your Learning Roadmap

See everything included in your journey — from quick wins to deep dives.

Introduction to Political Research

This module introduces participants to the importance of researching political candidates and ballot initiatives. It covers basic principles of research ethics, understanding reliable information sources, and the impact of informed voting on democratic processes. Foundations of Informed Voting Importance of Research Ethics Navigating Reliable and Unreliable Sources

Researching Candidate Profiles

In this module, learners will explore techniques to research candidate backgrounds, evaluate their campaign platforms, and assess historical records. Critical analysis of policies and past performance are emphasized for a thorough candidate evaluation. Analyzing Candidate Backgrounds Evaluating Campaign Platforms Understanding Political History and Records

Exploring Ballot Initiatives

This module focuses on the mechanisms and significance of ballot measures. Learners will study the legal and procedural aspects of initiatives as well as how these measures shape public policy and affect societal outcomes. Introduction to Ballot Measures Legal Framework and Voting Process Analyzing Societal Impact of Initiatives

Fact-Checking and Validation Techniques

Participants will learn advanced techniques in fact-checking and validation using practical tools and real-world examples. The module provides a step-by-step approach to challenge misinformation and ensure the integrity of political data. Techniques in Fact-Checking Using Data Analysis Tools Case Studies in Misinformation

Analytical Frameworks for Research

This module synthesizes concepts from influential texts such as 'How to Lie with Statistics', 'Factfulness', and 'Manufacturing Consent'. Participants will learn to identify manipulated data, evaluate societal trends, and understand media influence on public opinion. Interpreting Statistics Critical Analysis using Factfulness Media Influence on Public Opinion

Application and Case Studies

This final module encourages participants to consolidate their research skills by working on real-world case studies. Through structured assignments, building a research portfolio, and engaging in peer review, learners will gain hands-on experience in evaluating candidates and ballot initiatives. Conducting Comprehensive Research Building a Research Portfolio Peer Review and Discussion

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What Users Are Saying

Feedback from people exploring the learning experience

This course really opened my eyes to the importance of research in voting. I feel so much more confident in my choices now!

Amina Chowdhury

I learned a lot about fact-checking and evaluating candidates. The material was engaging, although I would have liked a bit more on local initiatives.

Carlos Mendes

Fantastic course! The resources provided helped me greatly in understanding complex ballot measures that I previously found daunting.

Svetlana Ivanov

A very informative course that covers all the essentials. I just wish there were more interactive elements.

Liu Wei

I appreciated the diverse perspectives and comprehensive approach. Now I can critically assess both candidates and their proposals.

Fatima El-Tayeb

Overall, a solid course! I walked away with useful tools for preparing for the upcoming elections.

Robert Nkosi

All You Need to Know

Explore quick answers to common questions about your learning experience

Enroll Now and Empower Yourself

Join us to learn how to effectively research candidates and ballot initiatives for informed voting.

Real-time interaction with an AI tutor for personalized assistance.

Instant feedback on research assignments and exercises.

Engaging learning format that encourages active participation.

Case studies that provide practical applications of your learning.

Flexibility to study anytime, anywhere, at your own pace.

A structured approach to building a research portfolio for informed decision-making.