It’s estimated that about 50% of adults and children are Introverted. Debate provides an ideal, holistic training ground to help Introverted kids gradually gain confidence, while also stimulating critical academic and other life skills essential to become successful leaders. Why Do Traditional Speech Classes Fail Introverts?
Traditional approaches have often taken a short-term focus with too much attention on outdated techniques requiring memorization and rote learning of speech and dramatic skills. These are often unnatural and forgotten without repetitive opportunities for application in school. Moreover, Extroverts tend to perform much better in public speaking courses, which can further harm the confidence of Introverted kids, reinforcing they’re not as capable. That’s exactly what we want to avoid doing. Debate as an Intellectual Training Ground for Introverts:
In contrast, Debate is a rigorous format that takes a real world approach and is backed by academic studies to help build leadership skills at an early age. Introverts and Extroverts alike can each thrive in this intellectual format in a supportive, small group setting. Many of the top debaters are introverted and are provided a safe environment to gradually open up without pressure to perform in front of an audience.
Debate is an intellectual exercise where the focus is on content, persuasion, and research by students. Introverted students gradually gain confidence and are given a unique platform to excel. Debate allows introverted students aids and research to support expressing themselves. Many of the top business and political leaders globally are introverted. Debate trains introverted students to grow into capable leaders.
Debate and Academics: Researchers in the United States have found that U.S. Debate is unsurpassed as a rigorous and highly respected academic activity that stimulates and supports a child’s development across important academic skills. This includes writing speed, reading comprehension level, listening, note-taking, research, data analysis, evidence-based reasoning, test taking, grades, and overall school performance. Many of these skills are an ideal training ground for future success as a leader. Top colleges recognize this, with debaters enrolling 700% more than non-debaters at Top 10 and Top 25 U.S. Colleges!
Critical Thinking Skills: U.S. Debate raises deep thinking and self-awareness as students learn to recognize and articulate their viewpoints, using evidence and logic, rather than simply expressing opinions. Students learn patience and the importance of listening attentively to the opposing team, while thinking critically to define questions that will challenge assumptions.
Speech and Debate India is based on a U.S. debate pedagogy to train students to express their voice on the most important issues and challenges that we face. The program brings together India’s brightest Grade 1-12 kids, the leaders of the 21st century, to critically think, collaborate, and create a bright future.
- The author Mr. Rajiv Kacholia, is a Former U.S. State Debate Champion, an alumnus of Stanford University, and Founder of Speech and Debate India, empowering students across India with rigorous U.S. Debate training and tournaments.
Written by our College Brew 1.0 GOLD SPONSOR: SPEECH DEBATE INDIA
