Frequently Asked Questions
Here we answer a few important questions we usually get about our programs:
- What makes CDI better than other debate programs?
- What are class sessions like? What is the curriculum like? What debate topics will be covered?
- What techniques does CDI use to teach students? What debate format does CDI use?
- Where do classes meet? How do the online classes work?
What makes CDI better than other debate programs?
First, we have the best instructors. Our instructors are national champions and coaches of national champions and have used their skills in debate to succeed in college and in life. They design all of our curriculum and do all of their teaching, using their years of experience and success. To really master debate quickly and correctly, we believe you need to learn from the masters.
Second, we have the best students. Because of the unique online eduction model we’ve perfected, we can bring together the most talented applicants from around the country and the world. Admitted students will be surrounded by their high-potential peers, which we believe further accelerates debate mastery. Our motto is Maxima Excellentia, which means “Greatest Excellence” or “Most Outstanding” – that is what we aim to achieve with our students!
What are class sessions like? What is the curriculum like? What debate topics will be covered?
Each class will cover two areas of topics. First are fundamental debate skills, such such as argument analysis and construction, rebuttal generation, effective speaking, etc. These skills build the foundation for proficiency in critical thinking and communication that students can apply to any topic and throughout life. Throughout the year, students will learn all the skills they need to successfully participate in a debate and to enhance their performance on a variety of academic assignments and tests.
Second are debate topics we’ve specially selected to challenge students to apply these skills. We also use these topics to provide our students exposure to issues they will encounter in high-level situations, such as college seminars. We use official Public Forum debate topics provided by national debate organizations, such as the National Speech and Debate Association, as well as hand-picked topics in current events, philosophy, economics, and more. Some of our past debate topics have included:
- Resolved: Individuals have a moral obligation to assist people in need.
- Resolved: Direct popular vote should replace electoral vote in presidential elections.
- Resolved: The United States ought to guarantee universal health care for its citizens.
- Resolved: On balance, standardized testing is beneficial to K-12 education in the U.S.
- Resolved: Developing countries should prioritize environmental protection over resource extraction when the two are in conflict.
- Resolved: In response to the current crisis, a government should prioritize the humanitarian needs of refugees over its national interests.
What techniques does CDI use to teach students? What debate format does CDI use?
The major national formats we primarily teach are Public Forum and Lincoln Douglas Debate. We teach students the skills such as research, refutation, speaking style, and cross-examination necessary to be successful in this format. However, our goal is to teach students the fundamental skills of debate, which can also apply to other formats such as Congressional Debate. We believe the fundamental skills of debate are the same across all formats, which is why it is easy for our students to transfer their skills to any other debate format or classroom setting (e.g. a class presentation).
In general, we use a wide variety of techniques to help students master the skills of debate. Our teaching philosophy is that students learn best by doing. Thus, nearly every class session includes drills and exercises designed to challenge students to implement the day’s lessons. These include drills for case writing, research, argument analysis, delivery, etc. Instructors will listen to students' speeches or review their written work and give them a detailed critique. We also regularly assign after-class work, which is then reviewed by our instructors. Finally, we have also used a private CDI forum where students and teachers can post their work for feedback and interact with their instructors and peers.
How do classes meet online? What are the advantages of online classes?
Our classes meet entirely online! Our program uses the Zoom video conferencing software, a professional platform used by hundreds of organizations, including universities. For each class, you’ll be emailed a link to join the seminar room for the day. Once you’re in, students see their instructor and the lesson materials on their screen. Our platform also includes features such as a Q&A box, the ability to raise your hand and to be called on by the instructor, and more, which gives our classes the full freedom to participate in the day's exercises, including debate drills and even full debates. Students only need access to a computer and headphones to participate effectively.
Our online educational model has several advantages. First and most importantly, we can bring together the most qualified instructors and the most talented students because we are not limited by geographic region. Second, students learn much faster. They can instantly access research or other information on their own computers and work collaboratively on research and cases. Lastly, we've heard our online classes are much more convenient for parents! There is no commuting because students participate from the comfort of their own homes.
Ready to step up your debate performance? Applications are open for the CDI Scholars Program.