Debating Technological Issues

Event Info

In this event, you will be tasked with preparing and presenting arguments on a technological topic. Working as a team of up to three members, you’ll research, develop cases, and participate in structured debates following a timed format. Teams must be ready to argue both the affirmative and the negative sides of the assigned issue. If you advance to the semifinals, an oral debate round and interview will be required.

Submissions for this event are prepared before the conference, but debates and interviews take place in person at the conference. A schedule of debate rounds and interview times will be provided.

What To Know?

Research

Understanding how to identify credible sources, gather statistics, and analyze evidence is essential to strengthen your arguments.

Structure Arguements

Learning debate frameworks, how to build a case, and how to respond with rebuttals and cross-examination will earn maximum points.

What To Submit?

Documentation Portfolio

1. Title Page
2. Table of Contents
3. Research Log (with citations)
4. Affirmative Case Outline
5. Negative Case Outline
6. Evidence and Supporting Materials
7. Debate Preparation Process (how you organized, divided tasks, and practiced)

Helpful Terminology

Affirmative (Pro): The side arguing in favor of the resolution.

Negative (Con): The side arguing against the resolution.

Resolution: The statement or claim that teams are debating.

Constructive Speech: The first speech given by each side where main arguments are presented.

Rebuttal: A speech focused on refuting the opposing team’s arguments.

Cross-Examination: Questioning period where teams ask the other side to clarify or challenge points.

Evidence: Facts, statistics, and expert opinions used to support arguments.

Flowing: A method of note-taking to track arguments and responses throughout the debate.

Burden of Proof: The obligation of the affirmative team to prove the resolution true.

Clash: Direct engagement with the opposing team’s arguments.

Framework: The structure used to evaluate the round (e.g., values, criteria, or impacts).

Impact: The explanation of why an argument matters in the real world.

Tools & Resources

Google Scholar – Access academic and peer-reviewed sources

JSTOR – Database for scholarly journals and research

Credible News Outlets – For current events and technological developments

Debate Timers – Practice with strict time limits

Flowing Sheets – For tracking arguments during rounds

Logical Fallacy Guides – To strengthen arguments and avoid weak reasoning

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