CAR 6

Citation:

Fallahi, Carolyn R. Fallahi., and  Haney, Joseph D. (2007). Using Debate In Helping Students Discuss Controversial Topics, Journal of College Teaching & Learning, 4(10):83-88.

After I read this article journal, the main purpose of this article journal is to help students discuss controversial topics using debate. As we have already know, we usually feel shy and do not want to discuss about controversial issues, like sexual, racism, poverty, and other controversial issues. However, through debate technique, students are able to be an open-minded and critical thinker that debating those kind of issues is no longer a taboo, but something that we have to solve.  The athmosphere during the classroom also getting better compared to the traditional discussion. The students enjoyed the debate and believed that it helped them discuss sensitive or controversial topics more easily. Half of the students who participated in the debate believed that being an effective speaker and working with their teammates led to a feeling of empowerment.

Personally, I think that debate technique is a valuable technique for increasing classroom discussion of controversial topics. The debate assignments created a great deal of anticipation and excitement among the students. It also improve students’ critical thinking, speaking skill, and participation during the classroom activity.