Full course description
Badge Overview
This badge contains 7 modules.
Students will examine the legal and constitutional framework of First Amendment audits, focusing on the right to record in public spaces. Through a series of readings, videos and case studies, this badge addresses the balance between public transparency and government interests in privacy and security. Students will explore the constitutional protections afforded to citizens and journalists and gain a comprehensive understanding of how to navigate and de-escalate "auditing" scenarios.
Badge Objectives
Upon successful completion of this badge, you will learn to:
1. Describe the purpose and motivations behind First Amendment Audits.
2. Identify common locations and scenarios where public recording of government officials occurs.
3. Explain the legal framework surrounding the public recording of government officials.
4. Apply practical strategies for responding appropriately to individuals recording government activity.
5. Identify the core rights protected by the First Amendment and explain their relevance to recording government activity.
6. Explain how courts interpret and apply the First Amendment across all levels of government.
7. Distinguish between different forms of protected expressive activity under the First Amendment.
8. Differentiate between content‑based, viewpoint‑based, and content‑neutral regulations of expression.
9. Explain the First Amendment foundations of the right to record.
10. Describe how federal courts have recognized and developed the right to record government officials.