I. Definition. Debate is a formal argument, in which two opposing teams propose or attack a given resolution in a series of speeches. Examples of debate resolutions: “The digital divide in Kazakhstan is bridgeable”, “In 2030 Kazakhstan will join the ranks of 50 most IT developed countries of the world”, “Artificial intelligence will one day get the upper hand over human brain”.
II. Rationale. Debate serves the goal of developing students’ skills of information search and processing; communication in the target language; public speech; argumentation; defence of one’s own viewpoint and teamwork. Debate also fosters tolerance, respect for other people’s opinions, active social stand, critical thinking. Educational debate allows to eliminate such drawbacks of academic discussions as deviations, over-emotionality, spontaneity, dominance of some students.
