This course teaches the basics of parliamentary law, providing participants with the knowledge and confidence to exercise their rights under parliamentary law and fully participate in any meeting. The course contains the following:
Hierarchy of the Rules
Learn which rules supersede which, how the rules work in harmony, and what to do when rules conflict. Gain a better understanding of the different tiers of rules, what each set of rules should contain, and how the rules affect one another. Learn what Robert’s Rules of Order actually is and how it affects so many organizations.
Using Governing Documents
Learn to identify and manage the many governing documents that govern your meetings. Learn how to keep governing documents current and how to find rules across multiple documents.
Quorum
Explore the meaning of "Quorum" and its application. Many common myths about the quorum are dispelled through a series of Questions and Answers.
Members and the Presiding Officer
The rights of members and the duties of the presiding officer are explained, including the following: how to address the presiding officer; how the presiding officer addresses members; and the patterns of formality that apply to members and the presiding officer during meetings.
Making Motions
Learn how to properly make a motion and which motions are in order at which time. Learn the three steps to bringing a motion before the assembly and the three steps to considering a motion.
Debate
Learn what is allowed in debate, how to be recognized to speak, and how debate can be limited or ended. Plus, receive tips for effective debate.
Voting Part 1
Explore the principles of voting, with an examination of the benefits and drawbacks of the common forms of voting.
Voting Part 3
Learn a quick and easy method for determining the result of a two-thirds vote and determining whether the chair can vote (sometimes he can; sometimes he can't).
Amending Motions
Learn the three processes of amending motions. Knowing how to properly amend a pending motion is one of the most valuable tools for reducing the time and stress of a meeting.