Debates are an opportunity for students to explore different sides of an issue, research those issues and formulate opinions based on research rather than emotions. Debates encourage critical thinking and give students a purpose for studying course content and delving deeper into course issues.
This workshop will provide an example of a debate in an online class as well as suggestions for how to set up an online debate.
Write down a brief response to the following question:
How can you get your students to discuss controversial issues in ways that enhance critical thinking?
The following clip provides a structure for setting up an “e-debate” and gives an example.
Think, Pair & Share
Think about a topic in your course that would lend itself to debate and what benefits a debate would bring to students.
Barkley, K. Cross, P. & Major, C. H. (2005). Collaborative learning techniques: A
handbook for college faculty.
San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
Palloff, R. M. & Pratt, K. (2005). Collaborating online: Learning together in community.
San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
Bloom, L., Dole, S. (2009). Procedure for Setting up a Debate