Learning Through Debate
Purpose and Use of Debates in Learning Debating is an essential part of the democratic system. To debate is to directly participate in a process that is fundamental to the operation of a free and open society. This process includes the honest and forthright exchange and discussion of ideas, the willingness to listen to opposing viewpoints and perspectives, and the impartial weighing of arguments and evidence. Recognizing the importance of these principles is vital to understanding—and improving—the world we live in. The deeper learning skills required to master an issue thoroughly enough to debate it is built into learning standards at middle school, high school, and college, precisely because such skills are critical to success in higher education and to career advancement. Debating enables students to both collaborate and compete. It also enables them to build skills in independent research, data analysis, and interpersonal communication. The goal of debating is to persuade listeners that your position is the correct one, or better than the position of your opponents. Here are a few areas in which learning occurs as a student takes part in a team debate: formulating questions—what do I need to understand about the issue? performing background research—how do