How to Organize a Political Debate

For students, attending a debate can deepen the concept of education.

There are two main reasons why organizing a political debate is beneficial to the community. First, it stimulates interest in the political process and political issues. Many young people in particular can feel alienated from the world of politics, thinking that it holds no relevance to their lives. Attending a political debate can convince them otherwise. Second, a political debate is an educational experience, as participants learn effective and logical ways to organize and present arguments. Civic, educational and media organizations often organize political debates.

Instructions

1. Work out your time line. Begin planning about three months before you want to hold the debate. Decide on your participants and invite them as early as possible to take part. Book your venue well in advance so you can work the cost into your budget and publicize the location.

2. Plan your budget. Think about asking for sponsorship from a local business or your educational institution to help offset any costs.

3. Invite an appropriate person to moderate the debate. You may decide to choose a professor or a journalist from a local newspaper or TV station.

4. Appoint someone to oversee publicity for the event. This person should set up a website or use a social networking site to promote the debate, as well as design some eye-catching fliers and tickets. If you have chosen a journalist or local personality to be the moderator, you may be able to generate some extra attention.

5. Decide on the structure of the debate and the amount of time each participant will be allowed to speak. You should also allow a few minutes for audience questions.

6. Organize any electrical equipment, such as microphones and a soundboard, that you will need, and appoint someone to set it up and run it.

7. If you get the particpants' permission, arrange for someone to video record the session and to transcribe the debate.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to safely store any rented equipment.

References

• Secular Students Alliance: Organizing a Debate
• Commission on Presidential Debates: Guide to Hosting Your Own Debate