Debating Cultures: Teaching Debate in an International Context

• In Event: Teaching Culture in Public Speaking

Abstract

College debate has been an indispensable part of American colleges and universities since the 19th century. Debate is said to reflect American values, such as efficiency, expertise, and determination (Keenan, 2009). This paper presents a case study of an intercollegiate debate in an international context. We focus on studying how debate as an educational exercise develops among two colleges: one in the United States and one in Russia. We are applying ethnographic methods to explore on-line debate sessions as a form of cultural communication reflecting American and Russian cultural meanings. The findings lead to recommendations on how to use debate as a pedagogical tool that can promote international collaboration and develop cultural competency that is key for global citizens.
References:
Keenan, C.J. (2009). Intercollegiate debate: Reflecting American culture, 1900-1930. The Journal of the American Forensic Association, 46 (Fall 2009), 79-97.

Authors

• Elena Nuciforo, Florida International University

• Travis Lakin, Florida International U