Early Childhood Education - Prof. Dreyfus: Start Here

DEBATE PROJECT

As a group, choose a current controversial issue in the field of Early Childhood Education.  Your group will split into two opposing sides for the debate.  Each group will research and explore in depth one side of the issue. Each side will present a solid argument in defense of their position.  Be prepared to respond to the opposing side and to field questions from the class. 

Some examples of issues to explore are:

• Public funding for childcare programs
• Reopening schools in the era of COVID/mandatory vaccines/mask mandates
• Virtual/remote school options
• School funding
• Security/armed guards in schools
• Media use with young children
• School uniforms

Do not feel limited by this list.

A web site to explore some interesting issues is ProCon.org

1. Written Outline (15 points)

After selecting a topic and positions, each team (pro/con) will write an outline.  Each team will create an introduction and conclusion together for the affirmative and the negative positions.  Each team member must independently research the topic and work together to write your arguments.  You may add more than three details/evidence for each reason.  For each detail, be sure to provide supporting arguments using research from outside sources.  Your team will hand in one paper for each side (pro/con). 

Include a bibliography. 

This paper should be two to three pages.  

Debate Outline Format:

2. Debate (10 points)

Your group will be divided into two teams.  Each team will present the side of the issue that they wrote about in the written report.  Your entire group will need to meet to prepare your debate so that you know each other’s points (pro/con).  Each member of the group will have a role in the debate.  

You may use notes during the presentation, but reading word for word from your paper is not acceptable.  This is an opportunity to draw forth and communicate ideas from an internalized knowledge base.