Debate is a rule-driven discussion of two teams about an important social topic. Each side having its own goal – one of them is to support the topic with the help of arguments, while the other one refutes the opposing team’s arguments. During the round, all members of each team take turns with their speeches. The success of the speakers is then evaluated by licensed judges, who also provide feedback after the round.
We are a non-governmental organization which brings together debaters, teachers, coaches and judges. For thirty years, we have been educating children, the youth and their educators in the Czech Republic via the worldwide renowned method of competitive and academic debate.
The flagship programmes of the CDA are Debate League, in both Czech and English, aimed for high-schoolers and Debatiáda, a competiton for elementary schools. We also organize the Prague Debate Spring, a reputable international tournament in the WSDC format.
Debate systematically and in the long-term contributes to the development of areas key to more than academics. The skills acquired in the debate programme are highly demanded in the job market and vital forr life in today’s complex and rapidly evolving world.
Young people think critically by debating. They perceive the world in context and the reality in relationships. They can logically analyze problems and find approaches to solve them.
Participants of CDA programmes easily assess the quality of information provided, search and verify it. To identify a credible source from an untrustworthy one is no big feat, just as they are proficient in working with data and statistics.
Debaters can not only identify, but also actively construct convincing arguments. They are able to explain why do they think something and why do they state something.
Precise expression, refined speech, teamwork, development in language or public speaking without stage fright. These, among many other skills, are possessed by participants of CDA programmes.
During debate rounds, participants are exposed to crucial societal issues, which don’t get enough attention in the classroom. In doing so, they broaden their knowledge and build their opinions and values.
Debaters do not form one-sided opinions. They know how to listen to others, respect and take into account opinions of others.
CDA events are about making new friends, mutual inspiration and unforgettable experiences.
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We offer a wide variety of trainings and workshops in debating, argumentation, critical thinking and media literacy for students and teachers. Want to start debating at your school too?
