Harnessing Debate
I believe in the power of academic debate and that everyone is able to benefit from the activity. This site is devoted to providing free resources for you: students, coaches, judges, administrators, and volunteers.
“[Debate] starts from critical thinking and analysis of real-world scenarios, then shifts to an understanding of the unique role that one plays within the world around them, and lastly reveals the power one has to become an advocate for the issues they love and care about, making a lasting impact upon the world.”
— Richard Omoniyi-Shoyoola, “The Speaker in the Blue Agbada,” in Why Debate: Transformed by Academic Discourse
Books by Shawn Briscoe
available at any book retailer
Resources
The various pages on this website represent over 30 years of experience and passion helping develop debaters and community activists in pursuit of academic debate. My hope is that whether you are an aspiring debater, educator, administrator, or community volunteer that you’ll find something in these resources that help you guide your debate program and better its community.
— Shawn
Resources for Debaters
A collection of videos, articles, and presentations for debaters. Covers general debate guidance as well as resources for specific formats of debate.
Resources for Volunteers
Materials to help develop community volunteers develop their gifts as judges. Guidelines on judging speech and debate, including sample ballots, discussion of judging principles, and specific debate formats.
Resources for Coaches
Materials to help coaches become better educators and leaders.
For Alaskans
As the Drama, Debate, & Forensics Coordinator for the Alaska School Activities Association, there are several resources specifically about speech & debate in Alaska. Information specific to opportunities and activities surrounding debate and forensics in Alaska.
Publications
A list of articles, books, and resources produced by me for the students, coaches, and other members of the debate community.
Author Bio
Shawn Briscoe has been involved in academic debate since 1990. Read more about him here.
My Speech Resource, LLC
I also serve as a paid consultant/contractor for individuals, educators, groups, or organizations which seek to improve their speaking skills or classroom presence.
“[Debate] played a significant role in shaping who I was as a person. Debate instilled a unique perspective that shaped my thoughts on leadership, community, and citizenship. In the end, debate transforms how people see the world. It opens doors, it invites dialogue, and it breeds understanding.”
— Shawn F. Briscoe, “Why I Fell in Love with Debate” in Why Debate: Transformed by Academic Discourse
