Tips for Successfully Navigating a Debate
It is vital to explicitly teach communication skills to students today. The following skills may be helpful for students when discussing or debating ideas in a group situation.
Let everyone have a turn at speaking.
1. Allow everyone in the group a chance to speak and acknowledge what they said respectfully. For example, “I hear and understand what you said and I agree/disagree. I think … because…”Don’t make fun or discount another person’s ideas.
2. Speak about ideas and not about a person.
Listen to others when it’s their turn. Listening to other’s ideas is how we learn.
- Do not dominate the conversation. Allow each person a turn to speak.
- Listen without interruption. Do not talk over others, allowing each speaker to finish his or her point.
- Listen with empathy, respect and courtesy, be mindful of others’ feelings and passions as they speak.
Take time to talk about and explore ideas.
- Give those in the group time to think about and understand the discussion before moving on.
- All speakers should try to keep to the point and focus on the topic at hand without being distracted.
- Be aware of your own biases.
- Have an open mind to changing your stance if the evidence is clear.
- Endeavour to build an understanding of the content and context of the debate.
- If the aim of the group is to work towards a shared solution or outcome, Ask questions of others.
- Ask clarifying questions.
Don’t be afraid to speak up. Your voice matters.
- Don’t be afraid to voice your opinion if it is in disagreement with the majority.
- All voices count and all voices matter. Be respectful of this.
Don’t take the argument with you.
15. Leave disagreements around the topic behind when leaving the room
“Be open-minded and flexible without compromising your values.”