COM 267L

de·bate
noun
1. a formal discussion on a particular topic in a public meeting or legislative assembly, in which opposing arguments are put forward.

COM 267L was a required class to fulfill for the Advanced Leadership Scholarship. The class consists of debates between the students. We first did a round of Lincoln-Douglas debates and then a cross examination debate. My debate partners were Abby, Ryan, and Lauren. Our first practice debate resolution was, “Beauty pageants in America should be banned”. Our second debate resolution was, “All assault weapons in America should be banned”. Lastly, our cross-examination resolution is, “Every citizen of the United States should be required to vote”.

This class has taught me more than just the basic forms of argumentation. I have also learned how to stand up for myself, argue smartly and I have gained more confidence in my public speaking. Learning the different types of fallacies has helped me understand the way people try and avoid arguments. I have learned how to form beneficial arguments and I have learned how not to argue. This class has taught me so much more than just debating, I am so glad to have had the opportunity to take this class with my LAS cohort.

Now that I have taken this course I will argue with purpose. I learned how to be educated in my arguments and how to support my arguments with evidence. Now I am going to use what I learned to be a better leader on campus. During different RSO meetings, I will be more confident in speaking in front of large groups due to the practice I had during this course. I will also have the confidence to argue my opinion. I am so glad that this course was required to take as a freshman, it allowed for me to open up and learn how to speak in public.