By Tyler R. Parsons
Vermilion H.S. (CLE) Assistant Coach and Experienced Congressional Debate Parliamentarian
Congressional Debate is an event which I love very much; I competed in it for four years, have judged it for three years, and have coached it for one year. It has positively affected my life and the lives of many others who have competed in the event. However, because I love Congressional Debate, I’ve come to realize that it is a flawed event and in need of an intervention.
Through my own analysis of the situation (and vibrant discussions with other Parliamentarians), I have come to the conclusion that Congressional Debate needs a comprehensive, foundational overhaul—specifically regarding the legislation, the scoring system (base), and how speeches/speakers themselves are judged. Only through rebuilding this flawed foundation will the event operate effectively and generate truly great debate. Continue reading Fixing Congressional Debate