This instructional technique comes from CTLT’s Instructional Skills Workshop materials. How do you think this technique can and should be adapted to interdisciplinary learning contexts and content?

Debate

In a debate, speakers present opposing views on a subject, giving reasons for their beliefs, followed by discussion of the issue by the entire group. The speakers should:

• give adequate evidence for their viewpoints
• critique their opponents’ arguments
• defend their own position
• summarize their own argument

Instructor’s Role

• meet with debating speakers to define issues
• define problem to group members
• act as moderator
• open topic for discussion after debate
• suggest material for additional study

Learners’ Role

• think about issue to be discussed
• participate in discussion
• participate in follow-up activities