Online debates can be a great way to exchange ideas, challenge assumptions, and persuade others. However, they can also be frustrating, chaotic, and unfair if not managed well. How can you ensure that all participants can speak during an online debate, without interrupting, dominating, or ignoring each other? Here are some best practices to follow.
Before the debate begins, make sure everyone knows the purpose, format, and duration of the debate. Explain how the speakers will be selected, timed, and moderated. Establish some ground rules for respectful and constructive communication, such as listening actively, acknowledging different perspectives, and avoiding personal attacks. You can also use a tool like Google Forms or Mentimeter to collect feedback and questions from the audience.
Communicate expectations that everyone brings a unique point of view and life experience to the discussion. Communicate that we are here to learn from each other. Play to the strengths of the group and the format.
One thing I found useful is the collection of questions. I would like to add that the moderator should be strict and to the point. He has to ba good leader to run the show.
Choose a platform that suits your debate topic, audience, and goals. For example, you might use Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet for a live video debate, or Slack, Discord, or Twitter for a text-based debate. Whatever platform you use, make sure it has features that enable you to control the audio and video settings, mute and unmute participants, share screens and documents, and record the debate. Also, test the platform beforehand and provide technical support if needed.
To facilitate a smooth and fair debate, assign roles and responsibilities to different participants. For example, you might have a moderator who introduces the topic, guides the discussion, and enforces the rules. You might also have a timekeeper who tracks and signals the time for each speaker, a fact-checker who verifies the claims and sources, and a summarizer who wraps up the main points and conclusions. These roles can help distribute the speaking opportunities and ensure accountability.
To make the debate more lively and interesting, encourage interaction and engagement among the participants and the audience. For example, you can use polls, quizzes, or surveys to gauge the opinions and preferences of the audience. You can also invite questions, comments, or feedback from the audience and the speakers during or after the debate. You can also use emoticons, reactions, or chat functions to express agreement, disagreement, or curiosity.
After the debate, provide feedback and recognition to the participants and the audience. You can use a tool like Google Forms or SurveyMonkey to collect feedback on the quality, relevance, and impact of the debate. You can also use a tool like Kahoot or Quizizz to create a quiz or a game based on the debate content. You can also acknowledge and appreciate the contributions, efforts, and achievements of the speakers and the audience. This can help them improve their skills, learn from each other, and feel valued.
Finally, follow up and extend the conversation after the debate. You can use a tool like Google Drive or Dropbox to share the recording, transcript, or summary of the debate. You can also use a tool like Padlet or Flipgrid to create a collaborative space where participants and audience can post their reflections, insights, or questions. You can also use social media, blogs, or podcasts to promote and discuss the debate topic and outcomes. This can help them deepen their understanding, broaden their network, and explore new possibilities.