Resource

Debate

Author: ATU Galway

What is it?

A debate involves students researching and analysing a topic based on stance they have chosen or are giving to take for the purpose of the assessment. They argue this stance against other students using factual and well-articulated points. The debate can be conducted with two participants or a group of participants.

Advantages & Challenges

Advantages

Challenges

Advantages

Debates are an authentic method of assessment.
Undertaking the preparation for a debate requires comprehensive research into a topic and understanding of both sides of the debate.
Helps to build students’ critical and analytical skills and enabling them to demonstrate their ability to think on their feet and respond in real time to live challenges.

Challenges

Tips for Use

Establish a structured format for the debate, including rules, time limits, roles, and topics. Divide students into teams and assign specific positions or arguments for each team to defend.
Demonstrate to students how the debate process will take place, show videos from debates to give them an idea of what is expected from them.
Require students to conduct thorough research and preparation for the debate. Encourage them to gather evidence, analyse data, and develop persuasive arguments to support their positions.
Provide guidelines or rubrics outlining the criteria by which the debate will be evaluated, such as argumentation, evidence, rebuttal, and presentation skills.
Select debate topics that are linked to the module and learning outcomes.

Resources

Sambell, K., & Brown, S (2023). Choosing and using fit-for-purpose assessment methods. Heriot Watt University. (page 5) Link: https://sally-brown.net/download/3496/
Chan C.(2009) Assessment: Debate, Assessment Resources@HKU, University of Hong Kong: TALIC – Assessment Resource Centre (hku.hk)

Sample Rubrics

Chan C.(2009) Assessment: Debate, Assessment Resources@HKU, University of Hong Kong: TALIC – Assessment Resource Centre (hku.hk)
Professional Development Service for Teachers: https://pdst.ie/sites/default/files/Rubric%20for%20arguments%20and%20informal%20%26%20formal%20debates_1.docx

Rubric for team/group debates:

Arlington Education and Employment Program: https://www.apsva.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/REEPaccess_activity_debaterubric.pdf

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