Page 47 - English in Media Discourse

C. Analyzing online discussions and debates

Online debates have emerged as a valuable pedagogical tool,
offering a formal competition between teams to argue a
discussion statement, known as the moot. This format
stimulates critical thinking and actively engages students in
research within the online classroom. The use of student-
generated debate presentations can provide a welcome change
from the typical call and response format of online discussion
board interactions. Preparation for online debates involves
identifying appropriate topics, sample references, setting dates,
and dividing students into teams. The debates can occur within
synchronous course sessions or be conducted on a discussion
board, following the rules of a typical debate with initial posts
and responses in affirmative and negative positions 113.
1. Kialo Edu: Promoting Critical Thinking and Rational
Debate
Kialo Edu, a custom version of Kialo, is designed for
classroom use and aims to promote well-reasoned
discussion online. It provides a visually compelling format
that facilitates thoughtful collaboration, presenting
discussions and debates as interactive trees of pro and con
arguments. The platform encourages educators to take
classroom discussions online, break down complex subjects
for students, and introduce new types of assignments. Kialo
Edu's mission is to promote well-reasoned discussion online
and is free for educators to use 114.
2. The Quality of Online Political Discussions
Online political discussions have been analyzed from the
perspective of deliberative democracy. While some
scholars recognize the value of online discussions in
promoting antagonistic pluralism, others emphasize the
significance of reason-giving and mutual respect in
deliberative quality. Online encounters have the potential to
bring people with diverse backgrounds and viewpoints
together, fostering rational political discourse. However,
discussions may involve severe opinion conflicts and not
always appear civil and polite 115.