Foundations of Persuasion

A university-led look at persuasion

Arizona State University is the institution behind this Coursera course, which treats persuasion as a set of communication tools rather than a matter of natural charisma. The subject is framed as something that can be studied and deliberately practiced.

Where it fits

The course is pitched at advanced learners, so it assumes some comfort with communication concepts already. It suits people who write or speak to influence outcomes, such as those in marketing, leadership, policy or client-facing roles, who want more structure than everyday habit provides.

• A focus on persuasive communication as a skill with its own methods
• Attention to written as well as spoken influence, since writing is among the listed skills
• Material that rewards returning to the basics of argument before applying them under pressure

The listing says little about the syllabus, so judge fit by whether its themes match the persuasion problems you face at work.