Our debate program offers unique educational opportunities that promote organizational skills, logical argumentation, respectful refutation, and effective delivery. Debate is a valuable activity for students of all skill levels. It builds public speaking confidence and strong academic rigor.
Here are 12 ways that debating can help students for years to come.
1. Critical Thinking
Debating helps to develop essential critical thinking skills – the ability to make reasoned and well thought out arguments in addition to questioning the evidence behind a particular stance or conclusion.
2. Articulation and Organization
From explaining complex mathematical equations to the plot of a favorite book, debating helps students to organize thoughts, identify an audience, and choose the appropriate tone and words. The ability to articulate and plan thoughts is key in debating, producing a well- planned out and sharp argument.
3. Education is key
Have you done your research? Do you understand your topic? Are your arguments coherent? Do they make sense?
A good debater reads and finds sources, writes and drafts speeches, speaks confidently, and is adept at listening. These are skills that are useful both inside and outside the classroom.
4. Think on your feet
To "think on your feet" is the ability to react decisively, effectively, and without prior planning. Debaters learn and hone this skill. They are also able to identify any loopholes in counter-arguments. The ability to think on your feet and respond to questions and comments is essential in any situation.
5. Conflict resolution
Debaters are trained to spot and resolve conflicts before they impact a discussion. Debaters also are encouraged to accept a loss graciously. These are both important skills in debating and in life.
6. Empathy
A successful speaker will always maintain a degree of empathy while debating. It is not necessary to agree with the other party’s argument, but empathy is an important life skill, helping you to improve your relations on a personal and professional level.
7. Keep your emotions in check
A good debater will also remember to retain an element of poise and composure – addressing the issue rather than getting carried away emotionally. Managing your emotions will not only stand you in good stead while debating. It is no easy skill to manage, but will gain you respect in every walk of life.
8. Construct meaning out of complex situations
Debating will also helps students to learn how to construct meaning out of, what are usually, rather complex topics. From world peace to banning nuclear energy, taking the time to research the subject and carefully construct the points you want to make will help you construct a better argument.
9. Presentation skills
Presentation plays a crucial part in how others perceive you as an individual, and more importantly, as competition. Good presentation skills will earn you instant respect both while debating and in future situations.
10. Confidence boost
Good presentation skills will also help boost confidence. This helps you shine at interviews or work related events. A polished overall presentation and confident speaking manner will make you a memorable individual.
11. Be more socially conscious
Debating is a skill which requires students to be much more politically and socially aware of current affairs. Being more socially and politically aware is not only important while debating but it will also ensure that you connect and relate better to others, both socially and in the workplace.
12. An expanded worldview
Debating provides the opportunity for students to study topics that provide a deeper understanding of the society and the world in which we live. An expanded worldview also encourages students to be proud of their talents and achievements, in addition to being more appreciative of the opportunities that await them.
Sources
E3 Debate Instructors
St John’s-Ravenscourt School World Champion Debaters
Study International -Debating-will-help-you-for-the-rest-of-your-life