Using Debate to Maximize Learning Potential: A Case Study

Authors

Michael W. Firmin, Cedarville UniversityFollow
Aaron Vaughan
Amanda Dye

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-2007

Journal Title

Journal of College Teaching & Learning

Volume

4

Issue

1

First Page

19

Last Page

31

Abstract

Following a review of the literature, an educational case study is provided for the benefit of faculty preparing college courses. In particular, we provide a transcribed debate utilized in a General Psychology course as a best practice example of how to craft a debate which maximizes student learning. The work is presented as a model for the principles of not building straw-men arguments, not shying away from controversial topics, giving politically-incorrect viewpoints fair treatment, making a crisp presentation that students will take seriously, and exemplifying gender-equity and aggressive female role-modeling. Reparative therapy and homosexual orientation was the debate’s topic.

Keywords

Debate

Recommended Citation

Firmin, M., Vaughn, A., & Dye, A. (2007). Using debate to maximize learning potential: A case study. Journal of College Teaching & Learning, 4, 19-31.