Eloquence, sound reasoning and mutual respect have been the hallmarks of today’s event. Casvi Villaviciosa has proudly held its 1st Debate Competition, an initiative that has involved all pupils in Years 9 and 10 in a top-level intellectual challenge.
ENHORABUENA A LOS GANADORES DEL I CONCURSO DE DEBATE
Following a qualifying round that was very close during the week of 20 a10> April, the best teams from each class have have met today, in a grand final marked by excellence. We would like to congratulate in particular the winning teams of this edition: 3rd Year C and 4th Year C of Secondary Education, as well as the runners-up, 3rd B and 4th B, for their brilliant performance.
Felicitar también a Diego Daniel Cantalapiedra, alumno de Casvi Villaviciosa ganador del diploma al mejor orador del Concurso de Debate Casvi.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE UNDER SCRUTINY
Under the question: “Can the presence of Artificial Intelligence in the field of education prove prove beneficial or counterproductive for the education of the pupils?” , the students have had to investigate, structure and defend positions that are at odds with one another.
The event stood out for its organisation and professionalism. The semi-finals took place throughout the morning under the watchful eyes of the players’ teammates, culminating in afternoon finals brimming with talent and excitement, before the awards ceremony at 4.30 pm.
BENEFITS OF THE DEBATE: BEYOND THE WORDS
The practice of academic debate is not merely an extracurricular activity, but a fundamental teaching tool at our school that brings direct benefits to pupils’ development:
- Public Speaking Skills: Students learn to master verbal and non-verbal communication, gaining confidence in public speaking.
- Research and rigour: To discuss AI, they have had to cross-check sources, analyse data and construct solid, evidence-based arguments.
- Empathy and tolerance: The debate forces students to defend positions that do not always align with their personal beliefs, which fosters the open-mindedness that is so vital in today’s society.
- Management of stress and teamwork: The coordination between the members of the group (identified today by their coloured lanyards) has been key to responding to the rebuttals from the opponents in real time.
LINK TO THE IB METHODOLOGY: FOSTERING INQUIRERS
This 1st Debate Competition is a true reflection of the values of the International Baccalaureate (IB) that we promote at Casvi Villaviciosa. Through this activity, we develop the attributes of the Learning Community Profile:
- Critical thinkers: The debate requires an analysis of the impact of technology (AI) from multiple perspectives, an essential skill in the Middle Years Programme (MYP).
- Good communicators: The format of the competition encourages the expression of clear ideas complex in an environment of respect.
- International mindset: When addressing global issues such as AI, students are prepared to become global citizens of the world capable to understand the ethical challenges of modernity.
In short, this first competition has made it clear that our students are not only ready prepared for the professions of the future. They also possess the skills in communication and analytical skills required to lead them. Congratulations to all the participants for this lesson in civility and talent!