July 3rd and 4th remain memorable days in the educational history of Entebbe, Uganda. Teachers of English and debate patrons from 10 schools within the municipality were trained in modern debates and refreshed on how to integrate debate into the curriculum for the promotion of leadership, public speaking, analytical and critical thinking skills.
Participants from over 10 schools were excited about the program and hoped for more trainings of this kind, since this opportunity was rather rare for this long-forgotten area. Participants resolved to organize annual debate tournaments and selected a four-person committee that will be mentored and coached by the trainers so that they can help organize tournaments in the Entebbe Municipality.
The local leadership couldn’t wait to throw their support behind the project. The District Education Officer, the Inspector of Schools and the Hon Muhammad Kauma MP Entebbe Municipality all attended. Hon Kauma remarked, “This is so far the first serious youth program that has come up since I was elected to parliament and I can’t wait to support [it],” says Hon Kauma.
IDEA trainers in Uganda facilitated this debate training.
Muhindo Johncation, Ugandan Debate League Program
Thursday, July 09, 2009
IDEA-NJFL Nationals a huge success
The seventh annual National Middle School Forensics Tournament was held June 26-28, 2009 at St. Mary’s Hall in San Antonio, Texas, and co-sponsored by IDEA and the National Junior Forensic League (NJFL). Attending the tournament were more than 240 students from 35 schools spanning 13 states, the territory of Saipan and the guest country of South Korea. Those students constituted more than 550 entries across a dozen speech and debate events.
Champion students in each of the events included:
Policy Debate: Aritra Biswas & Shalina Chatlani, St. Andrew’s Episcopal
Student Congress: Alexa Palomo, St. Mary’s Hall
Lincoln-Douglas (Co-Champions): Ben Liu & Michael Portal, Sidney Lanier
Public Forum: Viveka Advani & Nikita Datta, Capitol Debate
Prose: Callum Morrison, St. Mary’s Hall
Poetry: Sahil Bhaiwala, The Pike School
Humorous Interpretation: Jared Naylor, St. Mary’s Hall
Dramatic Interpretation: Dane Schnake, Raymore-Peculiar
Impromptu: Harry Wood, The Pike School
Extemporaneous Speaking: Gregory Ross, Sidney Lanier
Original Oratory: Caroline Ford, Stonewall Academy
Duo Interpretation: Parker Evans and Bryce Prior, Brentwood Academy
For more details, visit the National Forensic League.
Champion students in each of the events included:
Policy Debate: Aritra Biswas & Shalina Chatlani, St. Andrew’s Episcopal
Student Congress: Alexa Palomo, St. Mary’s Hall
Lincoln-Douglas (Co-Champions): Ben Liu & Michael Portal, Sidney Lanier
Public Forum: Viveka Advani & Nikita Datta, Capitol Debate
Prose: Callum Morrison, St. Mary’s Hall
Poetry: Sahil Bhaiwala, The Pike School
Humorous Interpretation: Jared Naylor, St. Mary’s Hall
Dramatic Interpretation: Dane Schnake, Raymore-Peculiar
Impromptu: Harry Wood, The Pike School
Extemporaneous Speaking: Gregory Ross, Sidney Lanier
Original Oratory: Caroline Ford, Stonewall Academy
Duo Interpretation: Parker Evans and Bryce Prior, Brentwood Academy
For more details, visit the National Forensic League.
Crafting the Message to Inspire Action (part4)
The Climate Advocacy Institute: Advocacy and New Media Track Lecture
Crafting the Message to Inspire Action (part3)
The Climate Advocacy Institute: Advocacy and New Media Track Lecture
Crafting the Message to Inspire Action (part2)
The Climate Advocacy Institute: Advocacy and New Media Track Lecture
News from the Climate Advocacy Institute
Facilitators are posting videos of the Institute as the action happens. Watch them all below!
A debate track update from instructor David Douglass:
The Debate and Argumentation track at the CAI has gotten off to a terrific start. Our group is comprised of a wide range of nationalities and interests, but everyone shares a passion for public advocacy. We began our first week by getting to know each other, and then established a grounding in debate and argument theory.
We discussed the classical roots of democratic societies, and examined the ways that public discourse contributes to social change. We zeroed in on fundamental skills of affirmative and negative argumentation, cross examination, and points of information. After that, we covered various styles of debate, with a focus on British Parliamentary, World Schools, and Karl Popper.
Each session involves a great deal of engagement and varied exercises that bring participants together for discussion and argument, so there's never a dull moment. Yesterday, we held our first full set of debates, with four-person teams and adjudication--it was a blast!
Passionate arguments made in the open air next to the gentle waves of the dark-blue Aegean--what could be better than that? Beachcombers stopped to listen, and even the seagulls seemed impressed by the authority of our rhetoric.
Today we're taking a day off for an excursion to an ancient city, but tomorrow we'll be back at it. We'll be holding a tournament next week, so our work now will culminate in a grand competition involving topics related to the environment. Stay tuned!
David Douglass is Interim Dean to the College of Liberal Arts, as well as a professor of Rhetoric and Media Studies, at Willamette University
A debate track update from instructor David Douglass:
The Debate and Argumentation track at the CAI has gotten off to a terrific start. Our group is comprised of a wide range of nationalities and interests, but everyone shares a passion for public advocacy. We began our first week by getting to know each other, and then established a grounding in debate and argument theory.
We discussed the classical roots of democratic societies, and examined the ways that public discourse contributes to social change. We zeroed in on fundamental skills of affirmative and negative argumentation, cross examination, and points of information. After that, we covered various styles of debate, with a focus on British Parliamentary, World Schools, and Karl Popper.
Each session involves a great deal of engagement and varied exercises that bring participants together for discussion and argument, so there's never a dull moment. Yesterday, we held our first full set of debates, with four-person teams and adjudication--it was a blast!
Passionate arguments made in the open air next to the gentle waves of the dark-blue Aegean--what could be better than that? Beachcombers stopped to listen, and even the seagulls seemed impressed by the authority of our rhetoric.
Today we're taking a day off for an excursion to an ancient city, but tomorrow we'll be back at it. We'll be holding a tournament next week, so our work now will culminate in a grand competition involving topics related to the environment. Stay tuned!
David Douglass is Interim Dean to the College of Liberal Arts, as well as a professor of Rhetoric and Media Studies, at Willamette University
IDEA and DebateWise to hold first World Online Debating Championship
Debatewise and IDEA are proud to announce the first ever World Online Debating Championship and formally invite you to take part.
This is an innovative competition and presents a new form of debating. 32 countries will take each other on in a knockout tournament open to anyone.
It takes place over the Internet, so you can participate from any place at any time. Debate with people from all over the world, and get to understand them better, all without leaving home.
Plus, you have a full 24 hours to craft your arguments to perfection.
The competition is being run by Debatewise in collaboration with the International Debate Education Association; Chief Adjudicator is Neill Harvey-Smith, the President of the World’s Debating Council. Round 1 will start on August 10th and the winner will be declared on September 21st.
To find out more, including how to enter, please email dc@debatewise.com or visit www.debatewise.com/wodc and we’ll be delighted to help. The closing date for registration is Sunday, July 19th.
This is an innovative competition and presents a new form of debating. 32 countries will take each other on in a knockout tournament open to anyone.
It takes place over the Internet, so you can participate from any place at any time. Debate with people from all over the world, and get to understand them better, all without leaving home.
Plus, you have a full 24 hours to craft your arguments to perfection.
The competition is being run by Debatewise in collaboration with the International Debate Education Association; Chief Adjudicator is Neill Harvey-Smith, the President of the World’s Debating Council. Round 1 will start on August 10th and the winner will be declared on September 21st.
To find out more, including how to enter, please email dc@debatewise.com or visit www.debatewise.com/wodc and we’ll be delighted to help. The closing date for registration is Sunday, July 19th.
Crafting the Message to Inspire Action
The Climate Advocacy Institute: Advocacy and New Media Track Lecture
What Makes a Successful Campaign: Team Work Presentation
The Climate Advocacy Institute: Advocacy and New Media Track Lecture
What Makes a Successful Campaign: 350.org Intro
The Climate Advocacy Institute: Advocacy and New Media Track Lecture
What Makes a Successful Campaign: Intro
The Climate Advocacy Institute: Advocacy and New Media Track Lecture
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
The Climate Advocacy Institute Updates
We are in the second week of the Climate Advocacy Institute held in Turkey from 28 June -18 July. More that 80 students are participating in the following Institute Tracks:
Please visit the Climate Advocacy Institute website where you can find updates for the Institute, videos from the track session, presentation, manuals, handouts and more.
Overview of the first week in 127 photos: The Climate Advocacy Institute
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Impressions of the Youth Forum venue...
On June 2-5, IDEA-NL staff members Marcin and Veronika visited the venues for this year's Youth Forum in Jahorina and Sarajevo, BiH. Although the Hotel Bistrica is not exactly the type of 4-star hotel you would expect in larger cities, the personnel are very nice and ready to help. A great indoor hangout area features table tennis, pool tables, games, gym equipment and a swimming pool. Outside, there are basketball, volleyball and football (soccer) courts.
Marcin and Veronika also tasted the dishes that would likely be served during the Forum, and decided they were tasty and generously portioned (even for guys). And because many BiH citizens eat halal food, the hotel is accustomed to catering to special diets.
Youth Forum staff are enthusiastic and creative in using every space the hotel has to offer. DO check the schedule and photos for a preview of the social and after-lab activities!
The finals will be held in the building of Parliament in Sarajevo!
Marcin and Veronika also tasted the dishes that would likely be served during the Forum, and decided they were tasty and generously portioned (even for guys). And because many BiH citizens eat halal food, the hotel is accustomed to catering to special diets.
Youth Forum staff are enthusiastic and creative in using every space the hotel has to offer. DO check the schedule and photos for a preview of the social and after-lab activities!
The finals will be held in the building of Parliament in Sarajevo!
Youth Forum calls for more judges
More judges are needed for the Karl Popper Debate Championship portion of the IDEA Youth Forum, taking place July 23-27 in Jahorina, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Three reasons to accept this invitation:
For requirements, please visit the site.
Three reasons to accept this invitation:
- Judge at a tournament hosting 40 teams and have a rare chance to mingle with over 200 people from 30 countries around the world.
- Attend a day of workshops to improve your judging skills.
- The Forum features fun evening activities such as the Country Expo (exhibition of all cultures present at the Forum), BiH night (exhibition and active participation in various aspects of Bosnian and Herzegovinian culture), dance and percussion workshops, sports and more.
For requirements, please visit the site.
IDEA-NL board member to be interviewed for documentary
In late July, IDEA-Netherlands board member Virginija Paksiene of Lithuania will be interviewed for Daily Life in Europe, a documentary commissioned for the new Visitors Center of the European Parliament, Brussels.
During documentarian Viviane Blumenschein’s stay in Lithuania, she will capture the personal stories of Paksiene and one of her students. Blumenschein also plans to cover “Youth for Europe, Europe for Youth,” a project Paksiene implements as Executive Director of the Informal Education Debate Center. Paksiene‘s project, “Youth Debates in the Baltic States,“ received a grant from the European Parliament in 2008.
Daily Life in Europe will share the European Parliament’s positive impact throughout Europe with 54 personal stories told in 27 countries.
During documentarian Viviane Blumenschein’s stay in Lithuania, she will capture the personal stories of Paksiene and one of her students. Blumenschein also plans to cover “Youth for Europe, Europe for Youth,” a project Paksiene implements as Executive Director of the Informal Education Debate Center. Paksiene‘s project, “Youth Debates in the Baltic States,“ received a grant from the European Parliament in 2008.
Daily Life in Europe will share the European Parliament’s positive impact throughout Europe with 54 personal stories told in 27 countries.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
UNICEF hosts video contest in honor of CRC’s 20th anniversary
If you’re 25 years of age or younger, you’re invited to participate in UNICEF’S video contest to celebrate 20 years of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Participants are asked to create a short video showing what child rights mean to them, whether it is in the world at large, their country or their community.
Each video must:
- Be related to children’s rights, either by illustrating one of the rights or referencing children’s rights as a whole.
- Capture the mission of Voices of Youth to promote and protect every child’s right to know more, say more, and do more about the world they live in.
- Be exactly one minute long.
- Be free of any copyright materials.
Only one submission can be made by either a group or an individual, and it may also be sponsored by an organization or corporation. To submit to the contest, applicants must upload their videos to one of the following video sharing sites:
- YouTube http://www.youtube.com/
- Blip.tv http://blip.tv/
- Dailymotion http://www.dailymotion.com/
- Veoh http://www.veoh.com/
In addition, applicants must send an email to unicef.crc.videocontest@gmail.com indicating their name, age, link to movie upload, title of movie, postal address, email address and telephone number. The submitted videos will be reviewed by a global panel of media professionals and displayed on the main UNICEF website. The winning video will be shown at the CRC’s 20th anniversary celebration and will be made available for broadcast around the world for the 2010 International Children’s Day of Broadcasting. Shortlisted entries will be notified by September 10, 2009.
The deadline is August 1, 2009.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
First Ever Debate Tournament in Jordan!
The first ever debate tournament in Jordan just ended with quite a lot of excitiment. After the team from Amman-Hashmi found out they won the final debate over the team from Irbid, they burst into cheers and received a flurry of hugs and cheers from their friends and teammates.The tournament, held at the Princess Basma Youth Resource Center, was conducted all in Arabic in the Karl Popper Debate format and featured teams from throughout Jordan. In addition to Hashmi and Irbid, debaters came from Aqaba, Zarqa'a, Amman-Khalda, Taibeh, Karak, and Sahab. In the morning the debaters considered whether Jordan's reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) should be lifted. The afternoon topic centered on the relationship between tribal law and public law in Jordan. Each team debated each topic twice for a total of four debates.
The final round motion was (translated into English) was "The minimum age to run for the Parliament in Jordan should be 18". In the final debate, the team from Amman-Hahsmi, which went 3-1 in the preliminary rounds, narrowly beat the team from Irbid, which was 4-0 in the previous four debates, including a victory over Hashmi. More importantly, these 6 excellent debaters put forward their ideas to the honored guest for the final round, Jordan's Minister for Political Development. If the affrimative team convinced him enough, maybe we will soon see young people eligible to run for Parliament in Jordan! The top 5 individual speakers from the final round were also from the teams from Hashmi and Irbid.With the group of smart and committed debaters and coaches in Jordan, we certainly expect to see more great things from the Debate Kingdom! Many thanks to Sireen, Enas, Murad Q., Murad K., Mahmood and Suha from the Princess Basma Youth Resource Center, Charlie and Kinda from the British Council Jordan, and of course all the debaters and judges.
Friday, June 19, 2009
The next Big IDEA
You can find great stories like these in the next issue of the Big IDEA!
YDLU takes its first step with training its future leaders
IDEA has partnered with the Open Society Initiative for East Africa (OSIEA) and OSI Youth Action Fund to develop the Youth Debate League in Uganda. The main mission of the YDLU is to promote debate and discussion among young people in Uganda. It will build upon existing debate structures, as well as develop new debate chapters across the country. YDLU will also serve as an umbrella for various debate initiatives in Uganda and will facilitate the organization of a number of activities such as debate tournaments, competitions, public debates, youth campaigns, trainings, and curriculum development. Because debate is considered to be part of Uganda’s rich tradition, the YDLU is working to quickly develop its capacity in the country.
On June 16th – 19th, YDLU facilitated a seminar near Kampala for twenty-three teachers and youth leaders who were interested in becoming certified trainers so that they could help promote the program in their districts. These participants completed their first stage of training through IDEA’S certification process. The program focused on an introduction to the Karl Popper debate format, which will now be the uniform debate format for competitions in Uganda. It also included sessions on argumentation, judging, debate out-reach, and public debates. Future stages of the certification process will include prospective trainers' engagement in on-line instruction and exchange of experiences, follow-up face-to-face sessions and observation of classes/trainings conducted by trainers. IDEA is looking forward to continuing its work in Uganda and building on the success of its previous Ugandan programs (CTAC and DTD).
British School of Amsterdam hosts another wonderful workshop and debate
On June 19th, the British School of Amsterdam held its second annual workshop and public debate. The British parliamentary debate workshop was hosted by Arielle Dundess, and was co-hosted by Deborah Scroggins- coach of the British School of Amsterdam debate club, and Veronika Vlckova- IDEA representative. This year’s debate focused on a very hot topic in the Netherlands- “state funding should be banned from religious schools.” The winners were Casper and Tyjmen from Christelijk Lyceum Zeist, which is a school very active in public speaking activities and would be very excited to attend the national and international debate tournaments.
Oxfam-Novib employees taught new skills at IDEA workshop
On June 18th, IDEA was invited to hold a workshop for the employees of Oxfam-Novib about debate and how it could be used in the development of employee work and aid. IDEA representatives, Doutsen Langhout and Veronika Vlckova, organized different workshops that focused on counseling, dealing with emergency situations, and using a rights-based approach. The group of thirteen employees wanted to improve their debating skills, and learn how to make convincing arguments and presentations. At first, the participants thought debate and argumentation was easy. After trying it out themselves, they discovered that becoming a good debater requires much practice and preparation. IDEA and Oxfam-Novib will explore possibilities to work together on future projects as well.
YDLU takes its first step with training its future leaders
IDEA has partnered with the Open Society Initiative for East Africa (OSIEA) and OSI Youth Action Fund to develop the Youth Debate League in Uganda. The main mission of the YDLU is to promote debate and discussion among young people in Uganda. It will build upon existing debate structures, as well as develop new debate chapters across the country. YDLU will also serve as an umbrella for various debate initiatives in Uganda and will facilitate the organization of a number of activities such as debate tournaments, competitions, public debates, youth campaigns, trainings, and curriculum development. Because debate is considered to be part of Uganda’s rich tradition, the YDLU is working to quickly develop its capacity in the country.
On June 16th – 19th, YDLU facilitated a seminar near Kampala for twenty-three teachers and youth leaders who were interested in becoming certified trainers so that they could help promote the program in their districts. These participants completed their first stage of training through IDEA’S certification process. The program focused on an introduction to the Karl Popper debate format, which will now be the uniform debate format for competitions in Uganda. It also included sessions on argumentation, judging, debate out-reach, and public debates. Future stages of the certification process will include prospective trainers' engagement in on-line instruction and exchange of experiences, follow-up face-to-face sessions and observation of classes/trainings conducted by trainers. IDEA is looking forward to continuing its work in Uganda and building on the success of its previous Ugandan programs (CTAC and DTD).
British School of Amsterdam hosts another wonderful workshop and debate
On June 19th, the British School of Amsterdam held its second annual workshop and public debate. The British parliamentary debate workshop was hosted by Arielle Dundess, and was co-hosted by Deborah Scroggins- coach of the British School of Amsterdam debate club, and Veronika Vlckova- IDEA representative. This year’s debate focused on a very hot topic in the Netherlands- “state funding should be banned from religious schools.” The winners were Casper and Tyjmen from Christelijk Lyceum Zeist, which is a school very active in public speaking activities and would be very excited to attend the national and international debate tournaments.
Oxfam-Novib employees taught new skills at IDEA workshop
On June 18th, IDEA was invited to hold a workshop for the employees of Oxfam-Novib about debate and how it could be used in the development of employee work and aid. IDEA representatives, Doutsen Langhout and Veronika Vlckova, organized different workshops that focused on counseling, dealing with emergency situations, and using a rights-based approach. The group of thirteen employees wanted to improve their debating skills, and learn how to make convincing arguments and presentations. At first, the participants thought debate and argumentation was easy. After trying it out themselves, they discovered that becoming a good debater requires much practice and preparation. IDEA and Oxfam-Novib will explore possibilities to work together on future projects as well.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
First idebate festival in Zeeland enjoyed by all
On June 11th, the first Debate Festival in Zeeland, Netherlands, was organized by IDEA along with other local partners. There were about 120 participants between the ages of 13 and 20 years old. Local politicians, parents, teachers, school directors, and friends also visited the festival. With only five debate training sessions, the participants were able to express their opinions about several topics such as friendship, the internet, and aesthetic ideals.
The mentors for the debate were trained in September 2008 by the Youth Council, a professional school from Youth Work. The mentors then invited the youth to take part in debate trainings, which became so popular that there were even waiting lists. Unlike other debate programs in the Netherlands, IDEA’s target group is young people who often feel marginalized and have difficulty expressing themselves. Even though this target group found it very difficult to participate in public debate, the Debate Festival demonstrated how these young people successfully overcame their fears.
Visit our website for more information and pictures: http://workserver.idebate.org/idebatezeeland.
The mentors for the debate were trained in September 2008 by the Youth Council, a professional school from Youth Work. The mentors then invited the youth to take part in debate trainings, which became so popular that there were even waiting lists. Unlike other debate programs in the Netherlands, IDEA’s target group is young people who often feel marginalized and have difficulty expressing themselves. Even though this target group found it very difficult to participate in public debate, the Debate Festival demonstrated how these young people successfully overcame their fears.
Visit our website for more information and pictures: http://workserver.idebate.org/idebatezeeland.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Youth Forum lesson plan competition announced!
Join competition and win international exposure!
This six week campaign aims to gather lesson plans from the coaches and teachers that focus on climate change or one of the other specific motions of the Youth Forum. We will evaluate the lesson plans every week and announce the winners through the Youth Forum Newsletter. The authors of the best lesson plans will be announced at the closing ceremony. Apart from public recognition, the winners will receive a book of their choice from Idebate press and their lesson plans will be published in the next Idebate Magazine!
For more information go to: http://www.idebate.org/ideaforum/node/36#attachments
This six week campaign aims to gather lesson plans from the coaches and teachers that focus on climate change or one of the other specific motions of the Youth Forum. We will evaluate the lesson plans every week and announce the winners through the Youth Forum Newsletter. The authors of the best lesson plans will be announced at the closing ceremony. Apart from public recognition, the winners will receive a book of their choice from Idebate press and their lesson plans will be published in the next Idebate Magazine!
For more information go to: http://www.idebate.org/ideaforum/node/36#attachments
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
The Big IDEA is back!
Youth Leadership Program with Bosnia and Herzegovina concludes, Big IDEA returns
Salem, ORE. USA (IDEA-Willamette office) — During the month of April, 18 high school students and three teachers from Bosnia and Herzegovina journeyed here to experience American democracy and citizenship. Through debate, stays with American families, participation in community service projects, interactions with American high school students and immersion in courses, these students and teachers gained the tools for creating positive change in their home country.
By the time they landed in Oregon they were great friends, after having met at a five-day pre-departure orientation in Sarajevo, and keeping in touch through Facebook.
They began their stay by visiting local museums and landmarks. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry was a favorite for its Leonardo DaVinci exhibit and experiential OmniMax Theater.
Participants then immersed themselves in American life by staying with local families, who exposed them to Oregon’s abundant beauty, the rewards of having house-pets, spicier foods, even the American shopping experience.
Of course, they were all here to learn; soon they were studying American activism and democracy by pitching in at various service organizations, sitting in on an Oregon Supreme Court hearing, and attending interactive classes.
Debate is essential to change. The students learned to debate, and then competed with local high school students from Willamette University's college access program, Willamette Academy. Finally, the participants’ stay in Salem culminated in a championship debate adjudicated by judges from the Oregon Court of Appeals.
The next morning it was off to Washington, DC, for more museums and national landmarks. Everyone was tired, but reluctant to complain.
Before they knew it, their month-long journey had come to an end. IDEA-Willamette staff have since corresponded with the group, and they report culture shock. But if their Facebook pages are any indication, they'll help each other process the incredible experience!
This U.S. Department of State program was quite an experience for the IDEA-Willamette office as well; we learned a great deal from our 18 young leaders and three teachers. We also learned that it’s nearly impossible to put out an e-newsletter while administering such an intensive program. We miss our participants, and have missed The Big IDEA. Welcome back!
Read more about the Youth Leadership and Professional Development Program with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Washington Post, Statesman Journal, and Willamette University news.
New Orleans students stand up and debate
On May 9th, New Orleans students competed in their 2nd debate tournament this spring. After weekly lessons and three workshops, 18 high school and middle school teams debated the topic, “When in conflict, environmental protection should be prioritized over economic growth.”
Congratulations to everyone who competed! We hope to see you next school year!
High school finalists:
Alton Denson, Kiera Craft of Early College High School
High school semi-finalists:
Creshon Amos, Chrissy Purcell of UNO Upward Bound
Top high school speakers:
Jameson Warr1n
Unique Bass
Chrissy Purcell
Creshon Amos
Middle school finalists:
Iman Aslam, Caroline Bland and George Evangelouis of Metairie Academy
Middle school semi-finalists:
Megan Bott, Yelim Jung, Andy Beams of Metairie Academy
Top middle school speakers:
Vincent Soldano
Caroline Bland
Joshua Montrel
International Tournament of Champions a success
The 5th annual International Parliamentary Debate Tournament of Champions, held May 21st-23rd on the campus of Willamette University, was another success. Teams from Oregon, Washington, Texas, Utah, California and the Philippines competed in lively rounds during the two-day event, discussing various topics, including hate speech.
The very accessible parliamentary debate format, based on British parliamentary debate, is intended to help students develop a broad knowledge base, improve argumentative abilities and speak persuasively and extemporaneously. To learn more about the format, click here.
Finalists:
Erica Furer, Annie McKenna and Logan Brog of Bentley School, Lafayette, CA
Semi-finalists:
Joshua Tang and Ayesha Malik of Alief Kerr High School, Houston, TX
Ken Hall III and Amber Bernard of Silverton High School, Silverton, OR
Top speakers:
Annie McKenna, Bentley School, Lafayette, CA
Sam Duzett, Glencoe School
Ken Hall III, Silverton High School, Silverton, OR
Carson States, Silverton High School, Silverton, OR
Erica Furer, Bentley School, Lafayette, CA
Logan Brog, Bentley School, Lafayette, CA
Amber Bernard, Silverton High School, Silverton, OR
Katiemarie Harmon, Maeser Preparatory, Lindon, UT
Fred Nagtalon, Mariano Marcos, Philippines
Joshua Tang, Alief Kerr High School, Houston, TX
Slots still available at the Climate Advocacy Institute
The International Debate Education Association (IDEA), 350.org and Bloomfield College are organizing a 3-week in-depth Climate Advocacy Institute that will equip students with the skills and connections needed to fight global climate change. The Institute will be held in Deçemko, a private resort on the Aegean coast of Turkey.
From June 28 to July 18, 2009, an experienced team of organizers will lead workshops on everything from the most recent climate science to campaign strategy to online communications.
IDEA and 350.org staff from Lebanon, the United States and Europe will work with participants over the three-week Institute to develop basic organizing skills. In addition, the Climate Advocacy Institute offers the following four tracks to choose from:
• Debate & Argumentation REGISTRATION CLOSED
• Journalism & New Media
• Performance & Art Advocacy
• English as a Foreign Language
This incredible opportunity is jam-packed with exciting extra-curricular trips to major historic sites, sports games and lots of fun after-hours activities.
Meet and hang out with dozens of young climate activists, and become part of the growing network of 350.org youth activists worldwide.
Get university credit for taking part! To apply now and learn more, visit the advocacy institute website. Take three weeks and change the world!
NJFL Nationals draws record numbers
Registration for the 2009 IDEA-National Junior Forensic League National Tournament closed June 1st with a record 252 students!
From June 26th through 28th in San Antonio, Texas, these middle school students from around the country — and even South Korea — will compete in varying format sets, from Policy Debate, Lincoln-Douglas and Public Forum formats to Impromptu, Humorous Interpretation, Poetry, and more.
CRY Uganda begins youth empowerment project
CRY Uganda is currently implementing “Creating Peaceable Communities Through Empowering the Youths Project” which is supported by the European Union under the Northern Uganda Rehabilitation Program (NUREP) in the three districts of Lira, Kitgum and Amuru. While in Partnership with War Child Holland and KICWA, CRY-Uganda will implement debates, a peace theatre, and peace camp. The objective of the project is to empower the community through youth, including ex-combatants and former LRA abductees and promote a supportive environment and peaceful co-existence in the Acholi and Lango regions of Northern Uganda.
The debates will focus on the discussion of controversial issues affecting the peacebuilding process in northern Uganda.
From these events, CRY Uganda plans to choose a team of debaters to attend the IDEA Youth Forum.
For more information, please visit the CRY Uganda website.
Kenneth Opolot, CRY UGANDA
Minsk holds fifteenth annual debate tournament
Fresh ideas were reflected in the fifteenth annual spring debate tournament in Minsk. Although this was a national tournament, every year we have participants from all over Russia, including the usual participants from St. Petersburg, and new participants from Yakutsk. Others came from Berdyahnsk, and the cities of Vilnius and Utena in Lithuania. The tournament kicked off with an entertaining presentation of four countries’ cultures. The preliminary rounds of the debate were also very exciting as it focused on the question of whether “The problem of global climate change should take precedence over economic development.” Members of the international ecological forums would have been very impressed by some the debaters’ responses to the problem. Just like this year’s tournament, future debates in Minsk will surely amaze participants with more new and fresh ideas!
Zhvalevskaya Anastasiya, BSU lyceum, Belarus
Bucharest Debate House
On the 8th of April, the debate house and the “Impreuna” Agency organized the National Network of the Young Roma and the Ministry of Education and Research. Two high schools in Bucharest participated in this debate, which featured the topic, “Affirmative measures regarding Roma population are justified in Romania.” The debate was part of a larger project called “The Young Debate,” and was honored by the presence of many important figures of the Romanian educational system. We look forward to the national final event on June 1st.
On the 10th of April, the debate entitled, “Roma social inclusion: a European or national problem?” was moderated by one of the most renowned journalists in Romania, Mr. Mircea Toma. The topic prompted much controversy as it raised issues about the Roma elite, the reluctance of the government, and the misuse of funding for past projects.
Oana Diana Stanciu, Debate House Bucharest
Komarovo 2009 International Debate Forum
The North-Western Open Education Center, in partnership with Herzen University of St. Petersburg, hosted the 11th Komarovo International Debate Forum during April 30 through May 3, 2009. Students, ages 15-20, debated in English and Russian in one of the largest international high school debates in Eastern Europe. More than 150 debaters and coaches came from all over Russia, and more than 50 traveled from abroad. These three days included numerous workshops, much debating, and evening activities full of fun! The preliminary topic was “This house believes that, when in conflict, global climate change concerns should take precedence over economic development in rapidly developing countries.” The elimination round topic was “To combat climate change, nations should use cap and trade regulations rather than impose taxes on carbon emissions.”
For more details about this year’s debate forum, please visit our website at http://komarovo2009.edicypages.com/en.
Sergei Naumoff, St. Petersburg Debate Association
National Oratory Contest:
“The Future Starts Today”
In partnership with Rotaract University Bucharest, the Bucharest Debate House organized the regional stage of the National Oratory Contest on May 7th. High school students created five-minute speeches about why “The Future Starts Today.” After the event, participants also discussed current problems of the Romanian educational system and the need for a youth center. The national final was held on May 16th in Pitesti, where qualifiers were coached by the Debate House in preparation for the event.
United States Universities Debating-
University of Vermont
The US Universities Debating Championship was a success. Over one hundred and twenty teams took the field for an exciting tournament. However, this event did not go without its challenges. This year the tournament took on a new debate format- the WUDC debate form. This is new and different for much of America, but we are taking to it with a surprising level of vigor and skill. And, those familiar with the format put their trust into a new host in a new part of the country. By the end of the three-day competition there was a world-class final round with world-class debaters!
Oana Diana Stanciu, Debate House Bucharest
Round Robin results in
The 2009 HWS/ IDEA Invitational Round Robin went exceedingly well this year. The Round Robin included 16 colleges and universities with 32 participants. The full tab is available here. View the final round here.
Eric Barnes, Hobart & William Smith College
Salem, ORE. USA (IDEA-Willamette office) — During the month of April, 18 high school students and three teachers from Bosnia and Herzegovina journeyed here to experience American democracy and citizenship. Through debate, stays with American families, participation in community service projects, interactions with American high school students and immersion in courses, these students and teachers gained the tools for creating positive change in their home country.
By the time they landed in Oregon they were great friends, after having met at a five-day pre-departure orientation in Sarajevo, and keeping in touch through Facebook.
They began their stay by visiting local museums and landmarks. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry was a favorite for its Leonardo DaVinci exhibit and experiential OmniMax Theater.
Participants then immersed themselves in American life by staying with local families, who exposed them to Oregon’s abundant beauty, the rewards of having house-pets, spicier foods, even the American shopping experience.
Of course, they were all here to learn; soon they were studying American activism and democracy by pitching in at various service organizations, sitting in on an Oregon Supreme Court hearing, and attending interactive classes.
Debate is essential to change. The students learned to debate, and then competed with local high school students from Willamette University's college access program, Willamette Academy. Finally, the participants’ stay in Salem culminated in a championship debate adjudicated by judges from the Oregon Court of Appeals.
The next morning it was off to Washington, DC, for more museums and national landmarks. Everyone was tired, but reluctant to complain.
Before they knew it, their month-long journey had come to an end. IDEA-Willamette staff have since corresponded with the group, and they report culture shock. But if their Facebook pages are any indication, they'll help each other process the incredible experience!
This U.S. Department of State program was quite an experience for the IDEA-Willamette office as well; we learned a great deal from our 18 young leaders and three teachers. We also learned that it’s nearly impossible to put out an e-newsletter while administering such an intensive program. We miss our participants, and have missed The Big IDEA. Welcome back!
Read more about the Youth Leadership and Professional Development Program with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Washington Post, Statesman Journal, and Willamette University news.
New Orleans students stand up and debate
On May 9th, New Orleans students competed in their 2nd debate tournament this spring. After weekly lessons and three workshops, 18 high school and middle school teams debated the topic, “When in conflict, environmental protection should be prioritized over economic growth.”
Congratulations to everyone who competed! We hope to see you next school year!
High school finalists:
Alton Denson, Kiera Craft of Early College High School
High school semi-finalists:
Creshon Amos, Chrissy Purcell of UNO Upward Bound
Top high school speakers:
Jameson Warr1n
Unique Bass
Chrissy Purcell
Creshon Amos
Middle school finalists:
Iman Aslam, Caroline Bland and George Evangelouis of Metairie Academy
Middle school semi-finalists:
Megan Bott, Yelim Jung, Andy Beams of Metairie Academy
Top middle school speakers:
Vincent Soldano
Caroline Bland
Joshua Montrel
International Tournament of Champions a success
The 5th annual International Parliamentary Debate Tournament of Champions, held May 21st-23rd on the campus of Willamette University, was another success. Teams from Oregon, Washington, Texas, Utah, California and the Philippines competed in lively rounds during the two-day event, discussing various topics, including hate speech.
The very accessible parliamentary debate format, based on British parliamentary debate, is intended to help students develop a broad knowledge base, improve argumentative abilities and speak persuasively and extemporaneously. To learn more about the format, click here.
Finalists:
Erica Furer, Annie McKenna and Logan Brog of Bentley School, Lafayette, CA
Semi-finalists:
Joshua Tang and Ayesha Malik of Alief Kerr High School, Houston, TX
Ken Hall III and Amber Bernard of Silverton High School, Silverton, OR
Top speakers:
Annie McKenna, Bentley School, Lafayette, CA
Sam Duzett, Glencoe School
Ken Hall III, Silverton High School, Silverton, OR
Carson States, Silverton High School, Silverton, OR
Erica Furer, Bentley School, Lafayette, CA
Logan Brog, Bentley School, Lafayette, CA
Amber Bernard, Silverton High School, Silverton, OR
Katiemarie Harmon, Maeser Preparatory, Lindon, UT
Fred Nagtalon, Mariano Marcos, Philippines
Joshua Tang, Alief Kerr High School, Houston, TX
Slots still available at the Climate Advocacy Institute
The International Debate Education Association (IDEA), 350.org and Bloomfield College are organizing a 3-week in-depth Climate Advocacy Institute that will equip students with the skills and connections needed to fight global climate change. The Institute will be held in Deçemko, a private resort on the Aegean coast of Turkey.
From June 28 to July 18, 2009, an experienced team of organizers will lead workshops on everything from the most recent climate science to campaign strategy to online communications.
IDEA and 350.org staff from Lebanon, the United States and Europe will work with participants over the three-week Institute to develop basic organizing skills. In addition, the Climate Advocacy Institute offers the following four tracks to choose from:
• Debate & Argumentation REGISTRATION CLOSED
• Journalism & New Media
• Performance & Art Advocacy
• English as a Foreign Language
This incredible opportunity is jam-packed with exciting extra-curricular trips to major historic sites, sports games and lots of fun after-hours activities.
Meet and hang out with dozens of young climate activists, and become part of the growing network of 350.org youth activists worldwide.
Get university credit for taking part! To apply now and learn more, visit the advocacy institute website. Take three weeks and change the world!
NJFL Nationals draws record numbers
Registration for the 2009 IDEA-National Junior Forensic League National Tournament closed June 1st with a record 252 students!
From June 26th through 28th in San Antonio, Texas, these middle school students from around the country — and even South Korea — will compete in varying format sets, from Policy Debate, Lincoln-Douglas and Public Forum formats to Impromptu, Humorous Interpretation, Poetry, and more.
CRY Uganda begins youth empowerment project
CRY Uganda is currently implementing “Creating Peaceable Communities Through Empowering the Youths Project” which is supported by the European Union under the Northern Uganda Rehabilitation Program (NUREP) in the three districts of Lira, Kitgum and Amuru. While in Partnership with War Child Holland and KICWA, CRY-Uganda will implement debates, a peace theatre, and peace camp. The objective of the project is to empower the community through youth, including ex-combatants and former LRA abductees and promote a supportive environment and peaceful co-existence in the Acholi and Lango regions of Northern Uganda.
The debates will focus on the discussion of controversial issues affecting the peacebuilding process in northern Uganda.
From these events, CRY Uganda plans to choose a team of debaters to attend the IDEA Youth Forum.
For more information, please visit the CRY Uganda website.
Kenneth Opolot, CRY UGANDA
Minsk holds fifteenth annual debate tournament
Fresh ideas were reflected in the fifteenth annual spring debate tournament in Minsk. Although this was a national tournament, every year we have participants from all over Russia, including the usual participants from St. Petersburg, and new participants from Yakutsk. Others came from Berdyahnsk, and the cities of Vilnius and Utena in Lithuania. The tournament kicked off with an entertaining presentation of four countries’ cultures. The preliminary rounds of the debate were also very exciting as it focused on the question of whether “The problem of global climate change should take precedence over economic development.” Members of the international ecological forums would have been very impressed by some the debaters’ responses to the problem. Just like this year’s tournament, future debates in Minsk will surely amaze participants with more new and fresh ideas!
Zhvalevskaya Anastasiya, BSU lyceum, Belarus
Bucharest Debate House
On the 8th of April, the debate house and the “Impreuna” Agency organized the National Network of the Young Roma and the Ministry of Education and Research. Two high schools in Bucharest participated in this debate, which featured the topic, “Affirmative measures regarding Roma population are justified in Romania.” The debate was part of a larger project called “The Young Debate,” and was honored by the presence of many important figures of the Romanian educational system. We look forward to the national final event on June 1st.
On the 10th of April, the debate entitled, “Roma social inclusion: a European or national problem?” was moderated by one of the most renowned journalists in Romania, Mr. Mircea Toma. The topic prompted much controversy as it raised issues about the Roma elite, the reluctance of the government, and the misuse of funding for past projects.
Oana Diana Stanciu, Debate House Bucharest
Komarovo 2009 International Debate Forum
The North-Western Open Education Center, in partnership with Herzen University of St. Petersburg, hosted the 11th Komarovo International Debate Forum during April 30 through May 3, 2009. Students, ages 15-20, debated in English and Russian in one of the largest international high school debates in Eastern Europe. More than 150 debaters and coaches came from all over Russia, and more than 50 traveled from abroad. These three days included numerous workshops, much debating, and evening activities full of fun! The preliminary topic was “This house believes that, when in conflict, global climate change concerns should take precedence over economic development in rapidly developing countries.” The elimination round topic was “To combat climate change, nations should use cap and trade regulations rather than impose taxes on carbon emissions.”
For more details about this year’s debate forum, please visit our website at http://komarovo2009.edicypages.com/en.
Sergei Naumoff, St. Petersburg Debate Association
National Oratory Contest:
“The Future Starts Today”
In partnership with Rotaract University Bucharest, the Bucharest Debate House organized the regional stage of the National Oratory Contest on May 7th. High school students created five-minute speeches about why “The Future Starts Today.” After the event, participants also discussed current problems of the Romanian educational system and the need for a youth center. The national final was held on May 16th in Pitesti, where qualifiers were coached by the Debate House in preparation for the event.
United States Universities Debating-
University of Vermont
The US Universities Debating Championship was a success. Over one hundred and twenty teams took the field for an exciting tournament. However, this event did not go without its challenges. This year the tournament took on a new debate format- the WUDC debate form. This is new and different for much of America, but we are taking to it with a surprising level of vigor and skill. And, those familiar with the format put their trust into a new host in a new part of the country. By the end of the three-day competition there was a world-class final round with world-class debaters!
Oana Diana Stanciu, Debate House Bucharest
Round Robin results in
The 2009 HWS/ IDEA Invitational Round Robin went exceedingly well this year. The Round Robin included 16 colleges and universities with 32 participants. The full tab is available here. View the final round here.
Eric Barnes, Hobart & William Smith College
Monday, June 01, 2009
Korean Youth Learn Diplomacy and Debating
Last week, middle school students from across Korea gathered in Seoul for a three-day journey into the life of a diplomat. The Middle School Youth Diplomacy Program offered 25 selected students the chance to sit in on panels by experts in diplomacy and international relations, tour a university campus, learn to debate and put their mediation skills to test in a diplomacy simulation on giving aid to Gaza. The program was jointly organized by the U.S. Embassy in Seoul and a group of Fulbright grantees to South Korea.
IDEA joined in by leading a session in the first evening on the basics of public speaking and argumentation. After some warm-up activities that gave everyone practice speaking in front of a group, we went over the steps for building arguments and had some short debates on topics like banning cell phones in school. At the end of the session, students matched assertions, reasoning and evidence on topics related to Gaza, Israel-Palestine relations and the nature of aid. Based on the speed at which the students picked up argument building, it was easy to tell the diplomacy simulation and all of next few days would be full of good ideas and exchange.
Friday, May 29, 2009
IDEA-XJTU Debate Tournament a Success!
May was a busy month for debate in China. In addition to the National tournament outside of Beijing, May also held the IDEA-XJTU International Debate Tournament from the 22nd to the 24th.Hosted on the campus of Xi'an Jiaotong , the tournament had a one-day training and demonstration debate, followed by five preliminary rounds and two elimination rounds. Over 140 students participated in British Parliamentary Debate in separate English and Mandarin-language tracks. In the English division, many students chose to continue the tradition of "frienship teams," pairing visiting American students with Chinese students for the tournament.
Tournament topics centered on domestic and foreign policy. In semi-finals, both divisions debated the motion, "In developing nations with rapidly growing populations, the UN should promote a one child policy," while "China should eliminate affirmative action for Chinese ethnic minorities" was the motion for the final round. Congratulations to XJTU for fielding the top debaters in both divisions!
Kind thanks is owed to Dean Chen for her hardwork and hospitality in hosting the tournament, and the Mandarin and English trainers for lending their expertise. Hope to see you next year!
Semi-finals in the Mandarin division.
One of the neatest flows I've seen.
Difficult decisions.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
The 13th China National English Debating Championship
The 13th annual China National English Debating Championship concluded May 16, 2009. 134 universities from across China fielded debate teams to compete in front of adjudicators from Thailand, the U.S., Singapore and China. which included a two-day training, eight preliminary rounds with three-judge panels, a break night party, and lots of fun.After a successful defense of the final motion on banning the selling and consumption of all tobacco products in China, the Macau University Debate Team were crowned champions. Read more (in Chinese!) here.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
IDEA-NFL Qualifier in Korea Wraps Up
Last weekend students from ten different high schools in Korea came together to compete in the fourth-annual IDEA-NFL Qualifier Tournament. After two busy days of debate and one packed day of speech events, Korea’s top forensics students were selected to participate in 2009 NFL National Tournament in Birmingham, Alabama. This year saw six rounds of Public Forum Debate, four rounds of Original Oratory, and three rounds each of International Extemp, Interpretation and Duo Interpretation.Out of a pool of over 60 students, 9 were selected to represent Korea at the 2009 NFL National Tournament. They are:
____
Public Forum Debate
1st Place (Qualifier for NFL Nationals in Birmingham, Alabama): So Hyun Eum and Jeewon Yoo (Daewon Foreign Language High School)
2nd Place (Qualifier): Moon Yeol Lee and Joo Yeon Kim (Hankuk Academy of Foreign Studies)
3rd Place (1st alternate): Won Young Choi and Joonpyo Sohn (Daewon)
4th Place (2nd alternate): Dennis Park and Yeeun Chun (Seoul International School-SIS)
4th Place (2nd alternate): Dennis Park and Yeeun Chun (Seoul International School-SIS)
International Extemp1st Place (Qualifier): Keunho Choi (Hanyoung Foreign Language High School)
2nd Place (1st alternate): Jason Huh (SIS)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Justin Song (SIS)
Original Oratory
1st Place (Qualifier): Sejin Paik (Korea International School-KIS)
2nd Place (1st alternate): Jae Yeon Jeong (Jungdong High School)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Jaewon Kim (Daewon)
Duo Interpretation
1st Place (Qualifier): Hannah Kim/Kristin Chung (KIS)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Jaewon Kim (Daewon)
Duo Interpretation
1st Place (Qualifier): Hannah Kim/Kristin Chung (KIS)
2nd Place (1st alternate): Ella Jeong/Audrey Park (Yongsan International School of Seoul- YISS)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Jimmy Kim/Woojin Kim (YISS)
Dramatic Interpretation
1st Place (Qualifier): Haeun Park (YISS)
2nd Place (1st alternate): Megan Song (KIS)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Sukyeon Won (SIS)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Jimmy Kim/Woojin Kim (YISS)
Dramatic Interpretation
1st Place (Qualifier): Haeun Park (YISS)
2nd Place (1st alternate): Megan Song (KIS)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Sukyeon Won (SIS)
Thank you to this year’s host, Hanyoung Foreign Language High School, and to the judges and coaches for their assistance. To the qualifiers-- congratulations on your success and good luck in June!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Friday, April 10, 2009
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Youth Camp Istanbul: First Videos Uploaded!
Two videos and one audio have been featured on YouthCamp website.
Watch or listen to the presentation delivered on the YouthCamp in Istanbul and continue the discussion by leaving video comments or just regular comments on the posts:
Video Presentations
Audio Presentations
More videos are coming soon! Stay tunned!
Watch or listen to the presentation delivered on the YouthCamp in Istanbul and continue the discussion by leaving video comments or just regular comments on the posts:
Video Presentations
Audio Presentations
More videos are coming soon! Stay tunned!
Monday, April 06, 2009
2nd Singapore IDEA-NFL Tournament a Success!
The second IDEA-NFL Qualifier Tournament just wrapped up in Singapore. The top students in each of five speaking events earned spots to compete in the 2009 NFL National Tournament in Birmingham, Alabama. This year saw over 60 competitors from nine different schools!
A large thank-you to Ms. Geetha Creffield, Shee Yong, Jasmin and the student volunteers from Anglo-Chinese Junior College for hosting this year's tournament. Their hospitality, organization and committment to the IDEA-NFL program made this tournament a great one. I'd also like to thank the judges and coaches from schools across Singapore for their help.
Results are below:
Duo Interpretation
1st Place (Qualifier for NFL Nationals in Birmingham, Alabama): Nagrani Vinesh Anil/Andrew Mark Ong (Anglo-Chinese Junior College--ACJC)
2nd Place (1st alternate for Birmingham): Aasth Chouhan/Ridhi Bhatnagar from GIIS-ECC
3rd Place (2nd alternate for Birmingham): Sara Vashudev/Shrutika Pandey (Global Indian School- East Coast Campus-- GIIS-ECC)
Humorous Interpretation
1st Place (Qualifier): Archana Sundraraj (ACJC)
2nd Place (1st alternate): Cumara Kalamacumar (ACJC)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Ashwini Sridhar (GIIS-ECC)
Dramatic Interpretation
1st Place (Arjuna s/o Segathesan (National Junior College)
2nd Place (1st alternate): Kwan Huiyan Rebecca (ACJC)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Eleanor Susan Lim (ACJC)
International Extemp
1st Place (Qualifier): Anish Hazra (Raffles Junior College--RJC)
2nd Place (Qualifier): Jessica Lee Chu En (Nanyang Girls’ High School—NGHS)
3rd Place (1st alternate): Thng Yiren (ACJC)
4th Place (2nd alternate): Yang Yu Yan (RJC)
Original Oratory
1st Place (Qualifier): Lee Jia Wei (RJC)
2nd Place (Qualifier): Yip Yuk Lum Jennifer (NGHS)
3rd Place (1st alternate): Wong En Hui Charis (NGHS)
4th Place (2nd alternate): Chia Pei Ling (NGHS)
they spoke...
...congrats to Singapore's Qualifiers!
A large thank-you to Ms. Geetha Creffield, Shee Yong, Jasmin and the student volunteers from Anglo-Chinese Junior College for hosting this year's tournament. Their hospitality, organization and committment to the IDEA-NFL program made this tournament a great one. I'd also like to thank the judges and coaches from schools across Singapore for their help.
Results are below:
Duo Interpretation
1st Place (Qualifier for NFL Nationals in Birmingham, Alabama): Nagrani Vinesh Anil/Andrew Mark Ong (Anglo-Chinese Junior College--ACJC)
2nd Place (1st alternate for Birmingham): Aasth Chouhan/Ridhi Bhatnagar from GIIS-ECC
3rd Place (2nd alternate for Birmingham): Sara Vashudev/Shrutika Pandey (Global Indian School- East Coast Campus-- GIIS-ECC)
Humorous Interpretation
1st Place (Qualifier): Archana Sundraraj (ACJC)
2nd Place (1st alternate): Cumara Kalamacumar (ACJC)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Ashwini Sridhar (GIIS-ECC)
Dramatic Interpretation
1st Place (Arjuna s/o Segathesan (National Junior College)
2nd Place (1st alternate): Kwan Huiyan Rebecca (ACJC)
3rd Place (2nd alternate): Eleanor Susan Lim (ACJC)
International Extemp
1st Place (Qualifier): Anish Hazra (Raffles Junior College--RJC)
2nd Place (Qualifier): Jessica Lee Chu En (Nanyang Girls’ High School—NGHS)
3rd Place (1st alternate): Thng Yiren (ACJC)
4th Place (2nd alternate): Yang Yu Yan (RJC)
Original Oratory
1st Place (Qualifier): Lee Jia Wei (RJC)
2nd Place (Qualifier): Yip Yuk Lum Jennifer (NGHS)
3rd Place (1st alternate): Wong En Hui Charis (NGHS)
4th Place (2nd alternate): Chia Pei Ling (NGHS)
they spoke...
they waited...
the scores were tallied...
...congrats to Singapore's Qualifiers!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Osipovichi-Open: the first experience
For several years in the small provincial Belarus town of Osipovichi, a debate club has existed. Its members participated in national and international tournaments, took prize-winning places and thought, what a good idea it would be to hold a tournament in Osipovichi! This year the dream came true: March 6th through 8th, in the city of Osipovichi, the international parliamentary debate "Osipovichi Open" took place.
The population of Osipovichi is only 35,000 people; therefore this international tournament really enlivened the town. Bank workers were surprised at the number of people wishing to exchange foreign currency, and taxi drivers at last had a lot of customers. However, for organizers it became a problem; rarely do so many people visit Osipovichi. That’s why only 20 teams participated in the tournament — representatives of Belarus, Russia and Ukraine.
The participants arrived on Friday, then took part in the first rounds. The general motion of the tournament was “The Union State of Russia and Belarus;” resolutions on each round appeared 15 minutes prior to a round. The heated arguments have caused discussions on the introduction of united citizenship and united currency for the two Union States. However, the final motion, “TH would leave the Union State of Russia and Belarus,” was especially unexpected. Less unexpected were the first place winners Zakzhevskaya Tatyana and Ruhlevich Olga, a team from Minsk. The team from Moscow (Russia) came in second.
It is necessary to mention social activities, too, an integral part of any international tournament. After all, communication among the participants is a necessary part of carrying out a debate. On Saturday evening, a traditional Belorussian “kapustnik," or talent show, was held. In general, the purpose of “kapustnik” is to amuse, show the abilities of each team and to share cultural traditions. Russian debaters sang songs about debates, Ukrainians held funny competitions, and everyone had fun.
The representatives of the Belarus Republican Union of Youth, the members of the New Communication Club, and the teachers and workers of almost every administrative agency in town took part in tournament organization (at the railway station, the delegation of participants was met by a greeting on loudspeaker!). "Osipovichi Open" became the first international tournament not organized in Minsk. We hope that the tradition will survive, and the tournament will become annual!
Ksenia Tsyganok, Osipovichi, Belarus
Register for the Global Advocacy Institute!
The Global Advocacy Institute, taking place in Turkey on the Aegean Sea, provides training for tomorrow’s leaders in tools that help them to promote discussion of issues that are important to them and their communities, and to advocate for positive change. This year’s Institute will concentrate on the critical issue of climate change. All students will receive training from 350.org and their training partners to:
- Develop a better understanding of how to use public narrative in advocacy
- Learn about the most up-to-date climate science
- Build skills for strategic and effective campaign planning
In addition, students will choose from three tracks of study:
- British Parliamentary Debate & Argumentation
- Journalism & New Media for Advocacy
- Performance & Art Advocacy
Students wishing to improve their English communication skills can choose our English as a Foreign Language track.
Climate Change
- A unique 3-week intensive program
- Training in climate change advocacy from 350.org and their training partners
- Last year’s Institute drew participants from 27 countries
- Students can earn 6 college credits from Bloomfield College (USA)
- Final performances and debates may be presented at the Ancient Theater at Pergamum
- Visits to major cultural and historic sites
- Extensive extra-curricular activities
An international faculty, staff, and student body provide for a unique camp environment and rich intercultural dialogue.
The institute is located at Deçemko, a private resort on the Aegean coast of Turkey, near Izmir, Pergamum, and other sites of cultural and historic interest.
In spare moments, join us in basketball, volleyball, table tennis, running, juggling, chess, movies, dances, and swimming in the Aegean Sea!!
REGISTER TODAY! (Financial aid may be available)
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
IDEA – XJTU Four-Team Debate Tournament!
You are cordially invited to attend the IDEA – XJTU Four-Team Debate Tournament on the campus of Xi'an Jiaotung University. Registration begins soon! Visit the event page.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Youth Camp Istanbul: See You There!
Don't forget to register for the YouthCamp and to announce your YouthCamp session or to check the YouthCamp Schedule.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Kicking Off Debate in the South-East of Korea
IDEA just finished a debate camp on the south-east coast of Korea. In conjunction with the U.S. Embassy in Seoul and the Ulsan Language Academy, 20 middle-school from across Ulsan participated in a three-day intensive debate program.On the first day, students participated in activities in small groups to develop critical thinking and public thinking skills and prepared speeches in defense of an argument of their choosing. A class discussion on the key components of debate was also held. On March 10th, students participated in a class-wide “chain debate” and another small-group activity on critical thinking and argumentation. Students also discussed tips for presenting a speech, learned the format for a debate competition, and watched segments of a recorded debate from a competition.
On the March 11th, after a warm-up game to encourage students’ language abilities and a review of the components of a good speech, a class-wide debate competition was held. Students split into six groups of three students and one group of two students and took turns debating. For the first round of debates, the topics “Students should be able to choose what they want to study in school,” “Boys and girls should be in separate classes” and “Junk food should be banned in school” were used. For the second round of debates, the topics “Smoking should be banned in restaurants,” “Advertising is harmful to society” and “Beauty contests should be banned” were used.All students debated or judged in both rounds of debate. At the conclusion, students’ scores were tallied and prizes were awarded to the top two teams-- congratulations to team "POD" and team "Prettism"!
In addition to the middle school program, IDEA led a short workshop at Ulsan Science High School (USHS) during the morning of March 10th. Students participated in a chain debate and crafted speeches in defense of arguments of their choosing. Everyone was eager to share their opinions on topics ranging from junk food in schools (recently banned at USHS!) to human cloning to the obligation of developed countries to help impoverished ones.Thanks to Sun-Nam from the U.S. Embassy, Ms. Ryu from ULA, Ms. Do from USHS and the great students in Ulsan for two fantastic programs!
Sunday, March 08, 2009
The Big IDEA, 3/8/2009
New Orleans tournament winners announced!
Middle and high school students in New Orleans went head-to-head this Saturday on the topic, “Teachers' salaries should be based on students' academic performance.”
And the winners are:
High School:
Semifinalists
UNO Upward Bound (Creshon Amos and Chrissy Purcell)
Early College High School (Kiara Kraft and Colby James)
Second Place
Early College High School (Kiara Kraft and Colby James)
First Place
UNO Upward Bound (Keira Garrison and Kristiaan Lewis)
Top High School Debaters
1 Alton Denson (ECHS)
2 Colby James (ECHS)
3 Kristiaan Lewis (UNO Upward Bound)
4 James Warren (John McDonogh)
5 Kendell George (ECHS)
6 Precious Williams (John McDonogh)
7 Chrissy Purcell (UNO Upward Bound)
8 Justine Webster (ECHS)
9 Keira Garrison (UNO Upward Bound)
10 Creshon Amos (UNO Upward Bound)
Middle School:
Second Place
Arthur Ashe (Takayle Smith, Sydney Butler, and Demante Lewis)
First Place
(George Aidoo, Christopher Kerry, and Jordan Character)
Top Middle School Debaters
1 Joshua Montrel (CAPDAU)
2 Jordan Character (Arthur Ashe)
3 Leander Brown (CAPDAU)
4 Brandon Smith (CAPDAU)
5 Christopher Kerry (Arthur Ashe)
Registration for the second New Orleans tournament on March 9 begins soon. Students and teachers are invited to refresh their skills at a workshop on March 8. Stay tuned!
(Left to right) David Crane, Andrej Schulcz, Virginija Paksiene
IDEA Netherlands board sees changes
IDEA Netherlands would like to welcome new board members Virginija Paksiene, David Crane and Andrej Schulcz, and thank retiring board members Katrin Viru, Rene Brinda and Chris Baron.
Virginija Paksiene is the Executive Director of the Informal Education Debate Center in Lithuania, IDEA's member, and she has been with the debate program from its very inception, contributing her energy and dedication to many Lithuanian and international projects, including projects implemented in cooperation with IDEA. IDEA is very fortunate that she has accepted this invitation and we know she will contribute to the development of the organization with her experience, creativity and hard work.
David Crane is an Internet veteran, having built websites for over 14 years. While having no formal debate training, he is an argumentative sod and loves nothing more than a full and frank exchange of views. He built Debatewise to make this easier, and happily, others benefit too.
Andrej Schulcz started debating in high school, then continued in university, and is now also a judge and trainer. He has been Chief Adjudicator of the Slovak Debate Association for three years, and studies political science and sociology at the Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic.
We welcome Virginija, David and Andrej to the board and wish them a lot of success!
Many thanks go to Katrin Viru, Rene Brinda and Chris Baron for their dedication and service to IDEA and its members over the years, hoping that they will continue supporting the organization and participating in its activities and projects.
Marcin Zaleski, Executive Director, IDEA Netherlands
Youth Forum teachers announced
I am honored to introduce the excellent educators that will teach at the IDEA Youth Forum! Apart from being outstanding teachers, they are also a wonderful mix of personalities and characters. The leader of this group, the Curriculum Director, is Bill Sheffield (USA). The trainers are: Andrei-Iustin Mihailescu (Romania), Annushia Balavijendran (Malaysia), Ashley Miller (USA), Branislav Fecko-Cegin (Slovakia), Claudia Newman-Martin (Australia), Danny Shea (USA), Elisa Frank (Canada), Ge Yang (PR of China), Gina Iberi-Shea (USA), Jingkai He (PR of China), Joost Hellegers (The Netherlands), Justice Motlhabani (Botswana), Lazar Pop Ivanov (Macedonia), Logandran Balavijendran (Malaysia/Korea), Mark Woolsey (USA), Nikki Thommen Bingham (USA), Rob Bingham (USA), Ronna Liggett (USA), Seo Hee Im (USA), Sharmila Parmanand (Phillipines), Sharon Porter (USA) and Shelby Jo Long-Hammond (USA). Our part-time trainers Andrej Schulcz (Slovakia), Joseph Zompetti (USA) and Sergei Naumoff (Russian Federation) will be leading some workshops at the Youth Forum while trying to fulfill their duties as IDEA NL Board members.
“Cap and trade, or carbon tax?” Want to read more about the topics of this year’s Youth Forum and research for them? Click here and read articles assembled by the Curriculum Director and the trainers.
A new one every week!
Veronika Vlckova, Forum Coordinator, IDEA Netherlands
Open call for debate teachers at Korea Poly School
IDEA is recruiting for two debate teacher positions in Seoul, South Korea with the Korea Poly School (KPS). KPS is seeking Canadian or US citizens to teach debate to middle school students for at least one academic year at one of their campuses in Seoul (Ilsan or Mokdong). Learn more here.
Elizabeth Humphrey, IDEA Program Coordinator, Korea
Center for Cultural Dialogue promotes debate in Bosnia and Herzegovina
CCD is big one happy family that affectionately promotes dialogue and debate. Recently we’ve had some interesting debate activities here in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
On February 6, CCD organized a public debate on juvenile delinquency. It was another opportunity to promote a culture of dialogue and to prove that the cooperation between governmental and non-governmental organizations is necessary in every aspect of life, and especially when trying to deal with serious social problems such as juvenile delinquency.
On February 7 and 8, CCD organized a seminar for professors. It was a great opportunity for them to meet again and to learn something new as well. The seminar had many interesting subjects such as the results of the regional debate competition (held on January 24), transitional justice, judging and more. The successful seminar was a great chance for professors to meet, share views on debate and arrange meetings between debating clubs.
Every Saturday at 5:40pm, Sarajevo residents can learn more about our activities on the TV show, Debate News. In this show, CCD informs viewers about the World Debate Championship, the IDEA Youth Forum, and debate programs in Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as around the world. Debate News is an excellent opportunity to promote dialogue and debate.
The CCD is organizing student seminars on March 7 in four regions: Prijedor, Tuzla, Mostar and Sarajevo. Students will learn more about researching for debate, finding the best material for debate and how to use it in the best way possible. So far, the CCD has received many positive comments from seminar applicants, and they all appreciate the opportunity to meet colleagues from other clubs and see people they know. And of course they appreciate a wonderful opportunity to learn something new.
The CCD has some great news to share. After long negotiations, Bosnia and Herzegovina finally has a national anthem! We see it as proof that anything is possible through debate and dialogue. It is possible to agree on anything as long as we are ready for dialogue and compromise. You can find the text here.
CCD Team, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Register for YouthCamp Turkey!
YouthCamp Turkey, taking place in Istanbul, connects youth who have goals and ideas for a more open society with youth wishing to contribute to these goals. Through collaborative projects, youth are empowered to become active citizens willing and able to influence public life, and they promote open society ideals. Please join us this April 4th and 5th in Istanbul, Turkey, to guide this new effort by sharing your ideas and experiences! Visit the site to learn more.
Are there limits to freedom of expression in art?
On the 4th of February 2009, artists, people of culture, politicians and journalists gathered in a place of cultural tradition, the “Carturesti” book store to debate whether or not there are limits when it comes to freedom of expression in art.
The debate was organized by the Policy Center for Roma and Minorities and the Media Monitoring Agency in their project Debate House, financed through the Roma Decade program by the Open Society Institute. The Debate House series is meant to bridge the existing gap between public authorities and civil society.
The main speakers were from vast domains and included: H.R.Patapeivici, president of the Romanian Cultural Institute (RCI), Virgil Nitulescu, State Secretary in the Ministry of Cults and Culture, Raluca Turcan, President of the Committee for Cults and Culture from the Parliament, Razvan Theodorescu, former Minister of Cults and Culture, Dan Grigore, member of the National Council for Audiovisual, Diana Hatneanu, lawyer and Executive Director of APADOR-CH, Kovaci Eckstein, Presidential Counselor for Minorities, Erwin Kessler, art critic from RCI, Dan Popescu, Diana Dochia and Vlad Ionescu, in charge of art exhibitions, Sorin Tara, artist of controversial works of art, and many more.
The discussion, led by Mircea Toma, President of the Media Monitoring Agency, started by remembering the events of November 2008, regarding several exhibitions of Romanian artists, financed by the Romanian Cultural Institute, that sparked public debate because they were considered to have an obscene character. Also in that period, an art gallery was devastated by a right-wing extremist group who did not approve of the work of art exposed, and people involved in culture were caricaturized in salacious situations on the Internet.
The topics reached by the discussion had a vast range: the publicity of art created by the series of scandals, the professionalism of journalists who accused several politicians of either being anti-Semites or favoring Jews because of their religious beliefs, the rights of artists in the eyes of lawmakers, and the maturity of the public: can it respect — if not accept — any kind of artistic expression?
Mr. Razvan Theodorescu said that everybody has the right to express oneself, no matter one’s education. The public’s maturity was discussed as well: is a phallus inappropriate? Ms. Norma Nitescu, from the Dutch Embassy, underlined the importance of educating the public about all kinds of arts, and the importance of freedom of expression.
Vlad Ionescu, responsible of the “Atelier 35” art gallery – vandalized after having exhibited a map of Romania featuring female genitalia, asked why the state is not punishing the vandals. He also asked where artistic expression stops and vandalism starts, referring to the graffiti made on the walls of the gallery.
The topic was addressed also from a legislative point of view, and Diana Hatneanu from APADOR CH ( The Association for Human Rights Protection in Romania – Helsinki Committee) presented the official position of the European Court of Human Rights ECHR) and the Romanian Legislation with regard to the matter of freedom of expression: in Romania, it is considered an offense to distribute materials with an obscene character, exhibitions included, and the ECHR is in agreement.
Ms. Raluca Turcan pointed out that often times political intrigues are present in the world of culture as well. It was said that if one person in the upper hierarchy of a cultural institution has a certain political affiliation – which is not the one in power, it is more likely that he will suffer financial repercussions from the other parties.
Sorin Tara decided to express himself in a different way, by having a broche with a swastika drawn on it.
A very good point was brought by one of the people present in the audience, that raised another issue: are Romanians protesting against art because of its poor quality or because they do not agree with the vision of the artist?
Although a clear conclusion was not reached regarding the limits of true artistic expression, several other questions were raised in the minds of the participants: What can the public decide? How much can the state intervene in matters of artistic expression? Does the Romanian public need an education towards art? If so, who should do it? What can be done to prevent the vandalism of art galleries? Can we say that what is inside the gallery is art, and what is outside is art as well?
Oana Stanciu, Bucharest Debate House Coordinator
Chinese debate team tours southern California
Five Chinese university students celebrated the 2009 Chinese New Year by boarding a plane for Southern California. The debaters from Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) and Xi’an International Studies University (XISU) were part of a 20-day tour of Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego (January 28-February 16). I was extremely proud to serve as the coordinator of this tour since I had played a part in the debate training of this special group. This tour had a strong connection with the International Debate Education Association (IDEA) since all of the debaters were trained in China by IDEA and have attended IDEA international tournaments. Zhang Yuan (Carmen) was trained as a high school senior at the 2004 IDEA International Debate Festival held at XISU. Her partner, Men Hansi (Hans) and she were in the Final Round of the national championships (the Foreign Language Teaching and Research Press Cup) in May 2008.
The three BFSU debaters were trained in British Parliamentary (BP) debate format by Robert Trapp and his staff in November, 2007 and qualified for the elimination rounds at the BFSU/IDEA tournament. Han Xue (Nina) and Zhou Qian (Helen) were semi-finalists at the December, 2007 IDEA tournament, while Ma Yulong (Martin) made it to the quarterfinals with his partner. In the last two IDEA tournaments in Wuhan and Beijing these three debaters served as adjudicators and provided demonstration debates. Recently, they brought their adjudicating skills to Mandarin debate competitions at BFSU. They were also part of an experimental class at BFSU where I taught public speaking, debate, and critical thinking under a Fulbright-Hayes grant.
Since this group had more competitive experience than previous Chinese tour groups, we gave them a broader variety of opportunities. Of course, they got to act as tourists and see the sights, but they may have had as much fun in the demonstration debates and the competitions in which they participated. Their narratives at the end of this article describe the richness of their experiences and document the differences they encountered. [See Helen’s narrative on “The differences between NPDA debate and parliamentary debate in China.”] Read the whole story…
Gary Rybold, Irvine Valley College, USA
Middle and high school students in New Orleans went head-to-head this Saturday on the topic, “Teachers' salaries should be based on students' academic performance.”
And the winners are:
High School:
Semifinalists
UNO Upward Bound (Creshon Amos and Chrissy Purcell)
Early College High School (Kiara Kraft and Colby James)
Second Place
Early College High School (Kiara Kraft and Colby James)
First Place
UNO Upward Bound (Keira Garrison and Kristiaan Lewis)
Top High School Debaters
1 Alton Denson (ECHS)
2 Colby James (ECHS)
3 Kristiaan Lewis (UNO Upward Bound)
4 James Warren (John McDonogh)
5 Kendell George (ECHS)
6 Precious Williams (John McDonogh)
7 Chrissy Purcell (UNO Upward Bound)
8 Justine Webster (ECHS)
9 Keira Garrison (UNO Upward Bound)
10 Creshon Amos (UNO Upward Bound)
Middle School:
Second Place
Arthur Ashe (Takayle Smith, Sydney Butler, and Demante Lewis)
First Place
(George Aidoo, Christopher Kerry, and Jordan Character)
Top Middle School Debaters
1 Joshua Montrel (CAPDAU)
2 Jordan Character (Arthur Ashe)
3 Leander Brown (CAPDAU)
4 Brandon Smith (CAPDAU)
5 Christopher Kerry (Arthur Ashe)
Registration for the second New Orleans tournament on March 9 begins soon. Students and teachers are invited to refresh their skills at a workshop on March 8. Stay tuned!
(Left to right) David Crane, Andrej Schulcz, Virginija Paksiene
IDEA Netherlands board sees changes
IDEA Netherlands would like to welcome new board members Virginija Paksiene, David Crane and Andrej Schulcz, and thank retiring board members Katrin Viru, Rene Brinda and Chris Baron.
Virginija Paksiene is the Executive Director of the Informal Education Debate Center in Lithuania, IDEA's member, and she has been with the debate program from its very inception, contributing her energy and dedication to many Lithuanian and international projects, including projects implemented in cooperation with IDEA. IDEA is very fortunate that she has accepted this invitation and we know she will contribute to the development of the organization with her experience, creativity and hard work.
David Crane is an Internet veteran, having built websites for over 14 years. While having no formal debate training, he is an argumentative sod and loves nothing more than a full and frank exchange of views. He built Debatewise to make this easier, and happily, others benefit too.
Andrej Schulcz started debating in high school, then continued in university, and is now also a judge and trainer. He has been Chief Adjudicator of the Slovak Debate Association for three years, and studies political science and sociology at the Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic.
We welcome Virginija, David and Andrej to the board and wish them a lot of success!
Many thanks go to Katrin Viru, Rene Brinda and Chris Baron for their dedication and service to IDEA and its members over the years, hoping that they will continue supporting the organization and participating in its activities and projects.
Marcin Zaleski, Executive Director, IDEA Netherlands
Youth Forum teachers announced
I am honored to introduce the excellent educators that will teach at the IDEA Youth Forum! Apart from being outstanding teachers, they are also a wonderful mix of personalities and characters. The leader of this group, the Curriculum Director, is Bill Sheffield (USA). The trainers are: Andrei-Iustin Mihailescu (Romania), Annushia Balavijendran (Malaysia), Ashley Miller (USA), Branislav Fecko-Cegin (Slovakia), Claudia Newman-Martin (Australia), Danny Shea (USA), Elisa Frank (Canada), Ge Yang (PR of China), Gina Iberi-Shea (USA), Jingkai He (PR of China), Joost Hellegers (The Netherlands), Justice Motlhabani (Botswana), Lazar Pop Ivanov (Macedonia), Logandran Balavijendran (Malaysia/Korea), Mark Woolsey (USA), Nikki Thommen Bingham (USA), Rob Bingham (USA), Ronna Liggett (USA), Seo Hee Im (USA), Sharmila Parmanand (Phillipines), Sharon Porter (USA) and Shelby Jo Long-Hammond (USA). Our part-time trainers Andrej Schulcz (Slovakia), Joseph Zompetti (USA) and Sergei Naumoff (Russian Federation) will be leading some workshops at the Youth Forum while trying to fulfill their duties as IDEA NL Board members.
“Cap and trade, or carbon tax?” Want to read more about the topics of this year’s Youth Forum and research for them? Click here and read articles assembled by the Curriculum Director and the trainers.
A new one every week!
Veronika Vlckova, Forum Coordinator, IDEA Netherlands
Open call for debate teachers at Korea Poly School
IDEA is recruiting for two debate teacher positions in Seoul, South Korea with the Korea Poly School (KPS). KPS is seeking Canadian or US citizens to teach debate to middle school students for at least one academic year at one of their campuses in Seoul (Ilsan or Mokdong). Learn more here.
Elizabeth Humphrey, IDEA Program Coordinator, Korea
Center for Cultural Dialogue promotes debate in Bosnia and Herzegovina
CCD is big one happy family that affectionately promotes dialogue and debate. Recently we’ve had some interesting debate activities here in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
On February 6, CCD organized a public debate on juvenile delinquency. It was another opportunity to promote a culture of dialogue and to prove that the cooperation between governmental and non-governmental organizations is necessary in every aspect of life, and especially when trying to deal with serious social problems such as juvenile delinquency.
On February 7 and 8, CCD organized a seminar for professors. It was a great opportunity for them to meet again and to learn something new as well. The seminar had many interesting subjects such as the results of the regional debate competition (held on January 24), transitional justice, judging and more. The successful seminar was a great chance for professors to meet, share views on debate and arrange meetings between debating clubs.
Every Saturday at 5:40pm, Sarajevo residents can learn more about our activities on the TV show, Debate News. In this show, CCD informs viewers about the World Debate Championship, the IDEA Youth Forum, and debate programs in Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as around the world. Debate News is an excellent opportunity to promote dialogue and debate.
The CCD is organizing student seminars on March 7 in four regions: Prijedor, Tuzla, Mostar and Sarajevo. Students will learn more about researching for debate, finding the best material for debate and how to use it in the best way possible. So far, the CCD has received many positive comments from seminar applicants, and they all appreciate the opportunity to meet colleagues from other clubs and see people they know. And of course they appreciate a wonderful opportunity to learn something new.
The CCD has some great news to share. After long negotiations, Bosnia and Herzegovina finally has a national anthem! We see it as proof that anything is possible through debate and dialogue. It is possible to agree on anything as long as we are ready for dialogue and compromise. You can find the text here.
CCD Team, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Register for YouthCamp Turkey!
YouthCamp Turkey, taking place in Istanbul, connects youth who have goals and ideas for a more open society with youth wishing to contribute to these goals. Through collaborative projects, youth are empowered to become active citizens willing and able to influence public life, and they promote open society ideals. Please join us this April 4th and 5th in Istanbul, Turkey, to guide this new effort by sharing your ideas and experiences! Visit the site to learn more.
Are there limits to freedom of expression in art?
On the 4th of February 2009, artists, people of culture, politicians and journalists gathered in a place of cultural tradition, the “Carturesti” book store to debate whether or not there are limits when it comes to freedom of expression in art.
The debate was organized by the Policy Center for Roma and Minorities and the Media Monitoring Agency in their project Debate House, financed through the Roma Decade program by the Open Society Institute. The Debate House series is meant to bridge the existing gap between public authorities and civil society.
The main speakers were from vast domains and included: H.R.Patapeivici, president of the Romanian Cultural Institute (RCI), Virgil Nitulescu, State Secretary in the Ministry of Cults and Culture, Raluca Turcan, President of the Committee for Cults and Culture from the Parliament, Razvan Theodorescu, former Minister of Cults and Culture, Dan Grigore, member of the National Council for Audiovisual, Diana Hatneanu, lawyer and Executive Director of APADOR-CH, Kovaci Eckstein, Presidential Counselor for Minorities, Erwin Kessler, art critic from RCI, Dan Popescu, Diana Dochia and Vlad Ionescu, in charge of art exhibitions, Sorin Tara, artist of controversial works of art, and many more.
The discussion, led by Mircea Toma, President of the Media Monitoring Agency, started by remembering the events of November 2008, regarding several exhibitions of Romanian artists, financed by the Romanian Cultural Institute, that sparked public debate because they were considered to have an obscene character. Also in that period, an art gallery was devastated by a right-wing extremist group who did not approve of the work of art exposed, and people involved in culture were caricaturized in salacious situations on the Internet.
The topics reached by the discussion had a vast range: the publicity of art created by the series of scandals, the professionalism of journalists who accused several politicians of either being anti-Semites or favoring Jews because of their religious beliefs, the rights of artists in the eyes of lawmakers, and the maturity of the public: can it respect — if not accept — any kind of artistic expression?
Mr. Razvan Theodorescu said that everybody has the right to express oneself, no matter one’s education. The public’s maturity was discussed as well: is a phallus inappropriate? Ms. Norma Nitescu, from the Dutch Embassy, underlined the importance of educating the public about all kinds of arts, and the importance of freedom of expression.
Vlad Ionescu, responsible of the “Atelier 35” art gallery – vandalized after having exhibited a map of Romania featuring female genitalia, asked why the state is not punishing the vandals. He also asked where artistic expression stops and vandalism starts, referring to the graffiti made on the walls of the gallery.
The topic was addressed also from a legislative point of view, and Diana Hatneanu from APADOR CH ( The Association for Human Rights Protection in Romania – Helsinki Committee) presented the official position of the European Court of Human Rights ECHR) and the Romanian Legislation with regard to the matter of freedom of expression: in Romania, it is considered an offense to distribute materials with an obscene character, exhibitions included, and the ECHR is in agreement.
Ms. Raluca Turcan pointed out that often times political intrigues are present in the world of culture as well. It was said that if one person in the upper hierarchy of a cultural institution has a certain political affiliation – which is not the one in power, it is more likely that he will suffer financial repercussions from the other parties.
Sorin Tara decided to express himself in a different way, by having a broche with a swastika drawn on it.
A very good point was brought by one of the people present in the audience, that raised another issue: are Romanians protesting against art because of its poor quality or because they do not agree with the vision of the artist?
Although a clear conclusion was not reached regarding the limits of true artistic expression, several other questions were raised in the minds of the participants: What can the public decide? How much can the state intervene in matters of artistic expression? Does the Romanian public need an education towards art? If so, who should do it? What can be done to prevent the vandalism of art galleries? Can we say that what is inside the gallery is art, and what is outside is art as well?
Oana Stanciu, Bucharest Debate House Coordinator
Chinese debate team tours southern California
Five Chinese university students celebrated the 2009 Chinese New Year by boarding a plane for Southern California. The debaters from Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) and Xi’an International Studies University (XISU) were part of a 20-day tour of Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego (January 28-February 16). I was extremely proud to serve as the coordinator of this tour since I had played a part in the debate training of this special group. This tour had a strong connection with the International Debate Education Association (IDEA) since all of the debaters were trained in China by IDEA and have attended IDEA international tournaments. Zhang Yuan (Carmen) was trained as a high school senior at the 2004 IDEA International Debate Festival held at XISU. Her partner, Men Hansi (Hans) and she were in the Final Round of the national championships (the Foreign Language Teaching and Research Press Cup) in May 2008.
The three BFSU debaters were trained in British Parliamentary (BP) debate format by Robert Trapp and his staff in November, 2007 and qualified for the elimination rounds at the BFSU/IDEA tournament. Han Xue (Nina) and Zhou Qian (Helen) were semi-finalists at the December, 2007 IDEA tournament, while Ma Yulong (Martin) made it to the quarterfinals with his partner. In the last two IDEA tournaments in Wuhan and Beijing these three debaters served as adjudicators and provided demonstration debates. Recently, they brought their adjudicating skills to Mandarin debate competitions at BFSU. They were also part of an experimental class at BFSU where I taught public speaking, debate, and critical thinking under a Fulbright-Hayes grant.
Since this group had more competitive experience than previous Chinese tour groups, we gave them a broader variety of opportunities. Of course, they got to act as tourists and see the sights, but they may have had as much fun in the demonstration debates and the competitions in which they participated. Their narratives at the end of this article describe the richness of their experiences and document the differences they encountered. [See Helen’s narrative on “The differences between NPDA debate and parliamentary debate in China.”] Read the whole story…
Gary Rybold, Irvine Valley College, USA
Saturday, March 07, 2009
Book Proposals Wanted!
Idebate Press publishes books on communication – public speaking, debate, argumentation and effective writing – critical thinking, and high interest contemporary issues, particularly those relating to the focus of the Open Society Institute. The market extends from middle schools through university.
The Press welcomes book proposals in the fields in which we generally publish.
We recommend that proposals include the following:
• a cover letter of two to four pages outlining the book's argument and its contribution to its field
• a current curriculum vitae
• a prospectus giving a detailed outline of the book (usually three to eight pages)
• a sample chapter (optional)
We will attempt to give you an initial response within six weeks.
Is there a book you have previously used, would like to use again, but is no longer available? Please provide us with the book’s title and author(s). We will investigate bringing the original or a revised edition back into print.
Proposals should be sent to Martin Greenwald – mgreenwald@idebate.org or mail to:
Martin Greenwald, IDEA
400 West 59th Street
New York, NY 10019
The Press welcomes book proposals in the fields in which we generally publish.
We recommend that proposals include the following:
• a cover letter of two to four pages outlining the book's argument and its contribution to its field
• a current curriculum vitae
• a prospectus giving a detailed outline of the book (usually three to eight pages)
• a sample chapter (optional)
We will attempt to give you an initial response within six weeks.
Is there a book you have previously used, would like to use again, but is no longer available? Please provide us with the book’s title and author(s). We will investigate bringing the original or a revised edition back into print.
Proposals should be sent to Martin Greenwald – mgreenwald@idebate.org or mail to:
Martin Greenwald, IDEA
400 West 59th Street
New York, NY 10019
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Youth Camp Invitation Video
Don't forget to register for the YouthCamp:
http://youthcampistanbul.eventbrite.com
and to announce your YouthCamp session:
http://tinyurl.com/dxavsg
Monday, March 02, 2009
Announce Your YouthCamp Session!
As YouthCamp Istanbul draws near, we invite you to announce your sessions before the presentations in Istanbul. We will be hosting a schedule of sessions that get assigned on a first-come/first-serve basis.
Click here to register your session:
Register a Session
Click here to register your session:
Register a Session
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