Considering the motion | Debating encourages critical thinking

An in-depth look at the importance of debating, highlighting its impact on pupils in terms of improving their confidence, independence and their ability to think in a critical manner.   Considering the unexplored Primarily, debating is important for pupils because it gives them a chance to think critically about things that they wouldn’t necessarily get to discuss in lessons. Whatever is being debated, whether it’s the situation in North Korea or if school classes should be set according to ability, debating allows pupils to discuss and explore subjects at a very mature level and, equally importantly, they aren’t told whether they’re right or wrong. Frequently, pupils propose the motions themselves, which has led to some of our most interesting and closely-fought debates as pupils are able to dive into topics that truly excite or interest them. Debating gives pupils the opportunity to follow their own ideas; to consider them, present them, express them and have them judged for their own value. Whether the debate focuses on current affairs, elements of their own educations, moral or philosophical questions, it’s a very open and engaging forum that encourages free-flowing critical thinking.   Considering the information Debating is also about critical engagement, particularly engagement with information. Our pupils are living in an age of unprecedented access to information, which brings invaluable learning opportunities but plenty of pitfalls too. Debating is extremely helpful in teaching pupils to engage with sources of information critically: testing them to detect bias, spin and even outright falsehoods. This process of critical engagement with information helps them create a reasonable, balanced view of the subject they’re exploring, while also strengthening the argument that they bring to the debate. If facts are not checked or a source seems wildly inaccurate or unbelievable, that’s a weakness in the argument for the opposing team to challenge and exploit. Ultimately, debating encourages pupils to look at a range of information sources covering the same subject matter and identify for themselves what they believe is trustworthy versus what isn’t.   Considering your point of view When preparing for a debate, pupils are often forced to look at topics from a completely different perspective. By arguing a position contrary to their own beliefs, pupils are encouraged to carefully examine the reasons for holding such beliefs. Just as importantly, to present the best argument, they must engage with the perspectives of others and find the reasoning behind those perspectives. By arguing from unfamiliar perspectives, pupils are encouraged, even forced, to deconstruct pre-formulated opinions about the topics we debate. This is important because critical thinking requires an open and unbiased mentality, capable of taking on new ideas and information and judging them for their inherent worth.   Considering the opposition Debating is a formalised environment with set rules and, admittedly, pupils sometimes take a little bit of time to get used to the mechanics of it. Not speaking out of turn, not laughing or making dismissive actions when points and rebuttals are being delivered, listening respectfully and patiently waiting for your turn to respond, these are all essential elements of debating. They also reinforce values we try to instil at Wellington – primarily respect and integrity, of course it also takes great courage to argue your case to an audience of your peers and teachers. Being respectful and considerate of other views is both an important life skill and genuinely helpful approach to debating. A key skill that all the best debaters have – and one which is not intrinsically obvious – is the ability to listen. Debating is not just about coming up with the best argument, it’s also about engaging with your opponent, probing their argument before picking it apart. To achieve this, you must be able to listen so that you have a clear understanding of what their argument is. This means that pupils are taking a step back and seriously considering the value of the beliefs and constructed arguments of others, something which ultimately helps them develop a more understanding, empathetic sense of character.   Considering the future As well as honing the different skills and encouraging the positive personality traits already discussed, debating is also an excellent testing ground for many of the tough challenges pupils are likely to face in later life. It is the best form of preparation for interviews: whether for jobs or higher education opportunities, there is no better way to learn how to think on your feet and respond intelligently and assertively to whatever is being thrown at you. When preparing for a debate, pupils can (and should) try to anticipate what the questions and key points of discussion will be, but it’s very likely that something will catch them off guard, causing them to need to quickly form a viable response. It’s an incredibly valuable lesson for pupils to learn that preparing yourself is undoubtedly important, it will help in almost any situation you encounter, but it’s also a skill to be able to react to what’s put in front of you. If you can formulate intelligent, confident and considered responses to questions under pressure during a debate, you’ll be in a great position to tackle university and job interviews further down the line.   Considering Wellington’s debating success Debating has steadily grown at Wellington since its foundation, now encompassing dedicated upper Prep and Senior School CCAs, annual house debating events and a rising tally of national and international debating competition success stories. Any pupils reading this who think that they have the heart and mind of a skilled orator should look out for the next opportunity to join in with the debating CCAs or house competitions. Very quickly, you could be joining our top debaters in one of the many national and international events where Wellington has enjoyed significant success.   A version of this article was originally published in Urban Family magazine. More relevant articles :

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