Debating SA seeks to encourage and develop in young people the following:
Thinking and research skills
- Analytical thinking skills.
- The ability to think clearly under pressure.
- A strong sense of curiosity and a love of learning about issues and the world around them.
- An ability to gather and evaluate information from a range of sources.
- Informed exchange of ideas.
- Initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively.
Communication skills
- Coherent and confident expression of ideas in collaboration with teammates.
- The ability to coherently and convincingly argue a point of view for their team, which they may not personally support.
- Public speaking skills.
- Word power and strength of language.
Social skills
- Self-esteem and self-confidence.
- A sense of understanding, tolerance and acceptance of different views on issues.
- Respect of the right of others to hold differing and alternative ideas.
Sportsmanship
- Generosity of spirit between participants, across all school sectors.
Teamwork and sportsmanship. - Valuing participation more than the outcome.
- A sense of responsibility to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.
The ability to respond appropriately to constructive feedback.