Curriculum Development

Oxford-Style Debates

Leading Authorities see thousands of events every year. We see what works and we see what doesn't. Here is something that is not only working, it is a conversation starter.

Put your stamp on your next event by adding something -- an Oxford-Style debate. More than just a point-counterpoint session, the Oxford-Style debate really adds drama and energy to an event.

Here’s how it works:

• Begin with a proposition on a particular issue. Example: The two-party system has failed America and the Tea Party will restore it.

• Before the debate, use audience response devices to survey the audience anonymously. Results will show how they stand on the issue before hearing the point-counterpoint.

• Two people or two teams take the stage. They each present opening arguments and engage in a debate with a genuine desire to sway the audience.

• Following the debate, the audience is again engaged using an audience response device to see if the debate resulted in a change of opinion.

• The audience continues to be involved in additional polling questions, Q&A, and follow-up content by the presentation teams.

Here’s a Short List of Speakers Who are Great with Oxford-Style Debates:

Leading Authorities handles the technology and content part of these debates to ensure clients get the best of both worlds. If you are interested in learning more about this trend, call 1-800-SPEAKER and talk with a program consultant.