policy debateOnline Competitive Debate for Lincoln Douglas and Team Policy is a great opportunity for interstate sparring before the competitive NCFCA season begins. Debaters and a parent judge meet once a week via SKYPE from October 24, 2011 to November 19, 2011.   Register for $ 10 by Saturday, October 15, 2011 to avoid a late fee.  Here are answers to some common questions:

1.  Why should I participate in online competitive debate?

Online competitive debate presents many benefits to students, including:

  • an opportunity to debate students from across the nation
  • weekly practice early in the season
  • adult judge feedback before tournaments
  • flexible schedule
  • debate in the comfort and convenience of your home

2.  How do the debates work?

Pairings will be sent out on weekly basis. You will then be required to contact your opponent and set up a debate according to your schedules. You or your opponent will also request a judge for your round. The debates will take place over SKYPE.

3.  Will I be paired against debaters of my own skill level?

Although the first two pairings will be random, you will be matched against people based on your win/loss record for the rest of your rounds.

4.  How often will I get to debate?

The mid-semester option runs for four weeks. Each debater is expected to debate once a week. This means you will get the chance to debate four times. There will also be an option to debate a few more times after Thanksgiving with no extra charge.

5.  What is required to participate?

In order to participate you must:

  • register
  • provide a judge (parent, alumni, coach, etc.)
  • access the internet
  • download SKYPE
  • own a microphone and headphones/speakers

6.  How much will it cost?

Participation only costs $10 per student if you register before October 15th, 2011.   After the 15th, a $5 late fee will be applied (fees may be waived if you can demonstrate financial need).

7.  Will the judge choose a winner after the round?

Yes.  Judges will be required to give a decision with reasons.  Speaker points and oral critique are optional but encouraged.

8.  Will results be posted on the website? 

Results will be sent out via email every week and/or posted on the website.

9.  What qualifications are required to be a judge?

In order to judge you must be 18 years of age or older, and register to judge.

10.  What will a judge be expected to do? 

Each judge will list the times that they are available when they register.   A list of judges will then be posted on the website along with contact information.  The debaters are responsible for contacting a judge in order to set up a debate.  Each individual is expected to judge two to four rounds over the course of four weeks, depending on their availability.

Questions?  Contact onlinecompetitivedebate@gmail.com.