Teachers’ observations about the use of debate in the curriculum
When surveyed, teachers who use debate in the classroom reported the following benefits:
- Improves self-confidence and self-esteem
- Uses higher order thinking skills
- Builds skills in research, teamwork and note-taking
- Is an active pupil-led classroom strategy
- Improves literacy and leads to better essay writing
- Builds speaking and listening skills
- Enforces the need to use evidence
- Teaches skills in building and responding to arguments
- Gives opportunity to practise thinking on your feet and working under pressure
- Leads to structured thought and structured writing
- Acts as an effective summary and revision tool
- Shows that there are two sides to all issues and gives a constructive format for disagreement to be aired
- Pupils enjoyed the activity and their learning.