University Student Perceptions of the Efficacy of Debate Participation: An Empirical Investigation

Abstract

This essay reports the findings of a national survey of collegiate debaters that dealt in part with their perceptions of the efficacy of debate participation. Respondents (N = 286) answered two open-ended questions on the benefits and disadvantages of debate involvement, and their responses were sorted into thematic categories. Despite the fragmentation of intercollegiate debate into multiple formats and debate-sponsoring organizations, students generally reported the same benefits and disadvantages of debate participation. Implications are suggested for the future development and health of intercollegiate debate programs.