法学部Faculty of Law

This is an undergraduate debate course.

This course aims to help students practice fluency, exchange opinions and enhance critical thinking skills through the medium of debate. The focus will be on building, presenting and evaluating arguments.

ディプロマポリシーのうち、「DP1」、「DP3」に強く関連。「DP2」、「DP4」に関連。

英語 / English

A variety of formal and informal topical issues and debate styles will be introduced. In the early stages of the course, students will analyze a specific topic question, conduct research to find evidence, write either affirmative or negative case positions and then present their case in an open class debate. As the course proceeds, depth and breadth of study will be expanded so as to require students to carry out individualized assignments, which will further refine their organizational, analytical and speaking skills.

*IMPORTANT: Depending upon the COVID-19 situation, part or all of this course may be conducted online. As such, this syllabus is flexible and changes may occur. If online, a much greater emphasis will be placed on critical thinking and discussion. It is your responsibility to check for updates and announcements both (i) on the course page within Hoppii, and (ii) in emails sent to your registered email address.
If classes are conducted online, Zoom will be the main platform used. Students will need a device that is connected to the internet and familiarity with Zoom protocol.


Feedback for homework and other assignments will be provided via Zoom, email or during class, if the lessons are face-to-face.

あり / Yes

なし / No

※各回の授業形態は予定です。教員の指示に従ってください。

1：Course Orientation

Explanation of the course requirements followed by self-introductions.

2：The Mechanics of Debate

Organizing, explaining and supporting your opinion. Challenging supports and organizing your refutation.

3：Case Study

Examination of the key arguments relating to a debate topic to be selected after consultation with the students.

4：Case Study

Continuation of previous lesson.

5：First In-Class Debates

Topic to be decided in consultation with students.

6：First In-Class Debates (continued)

Topic to be decided in consultation with students.

7：Topic Selection for Second and Third In-Class Debates

Debate discussion game. Students select topics for upcoming formal debates under guidance of the instructor.

8：Impromptu Debates

First round of impromptu debates.

9：Second In-Class Debates

Start of second round of formal debates based around topics previously chosen by students.

10：Second In-Class Debates (continued)

Continuation of previous lesson.

11：Impromptu Debates

Second round of impromptu debates.

12：Third In-Class Debates

Start of third round of formal debates based around topics previously chosen by students.

13：Third In-Class Debates
(continued)

Continuation of previous lesson.

14：Third In-Class Debates
(continued)
Course Wrap up

Continuation of previous lesson.

This is very much a practical course in which students will be actively engaged in a variety of tasks and activities. They will be expected to do sufficient research and preparation outside of the classroom to enable a meaningful and productive series of debates to occur during class time.

This syllabus is flexible and subject to change. The amount of time needed for the class to complete assignments and each round of debates is difficult to predict. Stay alert in class for precise dates for assignments.本授業の準備学習・復習時間は各2時間を標準とします。

There is no set text for this course.

Relevant materials will be provided by the instructor in the early stages of the course. Students will be responsible for gathering and organizing their own research materials as the course proceeds.

20% First In-Class Debate.
20% Second In-Class Debate.
20% Third In-Class Debate.
20% Impromptu Debates.
20% Active class participation and homework.

Students are expected to play an active role in all aspects of this class in order to foster and maintain an academically challenging environment throughout the course.

None.

smartphone/tablet, laptop, twitter, comm system.