Roundtable debates
What is a roundtable debate?
One way of building media interest around your local Aimhigher activities – and to closely involve young people themselves – is to hold a roundtable debate. This is where a panel of people debate a particular issue related to higher education.
Why hold a roundtable debate?
• Provides a fresh format for discussing issues related to HE – with both stakeholders and students actually involved in Aimhigher activities
• The format can suit particular Aimhigher activities that you are planning
• You can get a clearer understanding of students’ feelings towards HE
• Stakeholders can air their views on a particular matter of local or regional relevance
Whatever the reason, a debate can produce interesting findings that could help inform discussion around a particular topic – and give you a strong story for your local media.
Top tips for a successful roundtable debate
Have a motive – An Aimhigher activity that your debate can link into. E.G. Your debate could form the conclusion to a particular piece of work, or become an end-of-term activity.
Have a focus – A focused debate topic that everyone involved is clear on and sticks to.
Do your planning – fix a date and venue, and then prepare a week-by-week plan working backwards, detailing what needs to be done and by when.
Involve the media – Speak to your local newspaper as soon as you have a plan and ask them to take part. This means they will be properly involved in the debate – and are more likely to run a lengthier article on the event as a result.
Prepare your participants – This may be new territory for your participants, so make sure they feel comfortable speaking in front of others. Arrange suitable training if required.
Do you want an audience? – Consider whether a small, focused number of people or a live audience who can ask questions during the debate would work best.
It’s all in the chair – An articulate, welcoming chairperson will make everybody feel at ease, and it’s the chair’s job to ensure you stick to the topic being discussed and fit into the time you have available. Take time to choose the right person that you feel can match these requirements.
