Academic Debate

Module Overview

The Academic Debate module is designed to equip first-year students with essential skills that are foundational for academic success and professional growth. Engaging in academic debate fosters critical thinking, enhances communication abilities, and promotes collaboration—skills that are vital across all fields of study and professions. By participating in structured debates, students will develop the capacity to analyse issues from multiple perspectives, construct coherent arguments, and present their ideas confidently and persuasively.

Understanding the core concepts of this module begins with exploring the principles of critical thinking, which form the basis of effective reasoning and decision-making. Theories of argumentation and persuasion are introduced to enable students to develop sound, evidence-based arguments while respecting differing viewpoints. Students will also gain practical knowledge in report writing, public speaking, and group collaboration—integral components of academic and professional activities.

The scope of this module extends beyond the classroom, as it prepares students to navigate complex discussions in both academic and real-world contexts. By learning to prepare reports, design academic posters, and engage in formal debates, students will build a comprehensive skill set that aligns with the demands of modern workplaces.

The purpose of this course is to provide a dynamic learning experience where students can refine their analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills. The material covered is relevant to a broad range of disciplines, ensuring that students gain transferable knowledge that enhances their employability and lifelong learning capabilities. Through engaging lectures, group activities, and peer interactions, this module offers a stimulating environment that cultivates intellectual curiosity and professional competence. 

Module Objective

• • To introduce students to the fundamental concepts of academic debate, including critical thinking, argumentation, and persuasive communication.

  • To apply knowledge and skills in report writing, public speaking, and group collaboration to real-world and academic scenarios.

  • To learn the principles and techniques of effective time management, event planning, and academic poster design.

  • To be aware of the ethical considerations in academic and professional discourse, including respect for diverse perspectives, avoiding plagiarism, and maintaining integrity in all forms of communication.

Assessment Scheme

1.  25% Different Daily Activities such as

   • Group Work

   • Creative Thinking

   • Problem Solving

   • Speed Reading

   • Logical Thinking Activities

2.  25% Seminars & Interactive Presentations

   • Power Point and Poster Presentation

   • Film making …… etc.

3.  25%

   • Writing Reports

   • Using Library and 

   • Seeking Information

4.  25% Final (Debate) Presentation (group presentation evaluated by their teachers).

Methodology and students’ Activities

Group work

• Through this method, students learn how to conduct an activity or assignment with a group of students.

• It depends on using leadership skills, time management skills, distribution of tasks, data collection, sharing information, accepting others’ viewpoints.

• It includes small group (usually 3) to interact with each other to achieve the goal.

Practical activities

• Theoretical materials > carried out practically. The teacher can make use of the following:

A.    MS Word (font, margin, report cover, referencing, word count)

B.    MS Power Point (poster design, present.

C.    Collecting data (survey, interview skills).

D.    Any other activities on the side of students like Designing Poster, Report Writing, Debating and Delivering seminars.

Student Learning Outcome

• • Identify and describe key principles of critical thinking, argumentation, and persuasion in academic debate.

  • Gather, organize, and document information effectively in a basic academic report.

  • Work collaboratively in groups, contributing to discussions and completing assigned tasks.

  • Create simple yet engaging academic posters and PowerPoint presentations using the provided templates and tools.

  • Demonstrate the ability to speak clearly and confidently in front of an audience during presentations and seminars.

  • Apply basic time management strategies to complete tasks and meet deadlines effectively.

  • Participate in structured debates, presenting logical arguments and responding respectfully to opposing views.

  • Practice ethical academic behavior, including proper citation of sources and avoiding plagiarism.

  • Collaborate to organize and participate in a simple academic event, reflecting teamwork and organizational skills.

  • Recognize how skills learned in this module, such as communication and collaboration, are useful for future careers.