Video Judging

Have judges watch a debate, preferably one that is on videotape so that you can stop and discuss between speeches. It is not necessary that the debate is perfect. In fact, it may be better if the debate has a few flaws in it so that judges will have the opportunity to discuss how the debate might have been improved.

While the debate is occurring, judges should keep a flow of the arguments. Between speeches the instructor should review the arguments made and ensure that every judge is keeping an accurate flow. It may also be a good idea to ask questions like what is the most important argument at this point in the debate?, Did you notice any mistakes in that last speech? or What is the biggest challenge for the next speaker?.

After the debate, have judges work in small groups in order to go through the steps of reaching a decision: deciding upon an interpretation, identifying important concessions, identifying important issues, resolving each issue, and putting them together for a decision for one side. In addition, teams of judges should think about the positive and negative criticism which they would offer to each team.

The instructor can compare the results of each group, stressing that there is not necessarily a correct decision for the round, but there are better and worse ways of getting to the decision.