Programs

The UH Honors Debate Workshop offers instruction in each of the major competitive debate formats in US High Schools. The training that we offer provides an excellent opportunity to develop argumentation, writing, and public speaking skills that are useful beyond competition. Our learning environment is structured to be as interactive as possible. While students will receive some program wide lectures, most of their learning time will be spent in small groups “labs.”

In the labs student will learn and engage with the instructors and other students to develop arguments, learn how to give winning speeches, and participate in structured practice activities and practice rounds.

Perfect for all levels, including beginners
Whether a student is new to debate or a debate veteran, we have a curriculum track designed for their experience level. The curriculum coordinator for their program will assign students to labs based on their debate background and experience.
Core skills and individual creative ideas development
Our curriculum ensures student mastery of core debate skills. Our study hall provides support for students to develop their own intellectual interests with one-on-one assistance from instructors.
Emphasis on active learning
Our students collaborate, critique, discuss, and argue–all in small group settings.
Inclusive learning environment
The HDW is committed to providing a debate environment that includes both members of the UDL community and the general high school community. We believe that everyone will benefit from working with people that they might not otherwise engage with.
Diverse instructor experience
We believe that students learn best when they are exposed to a variety of instructors. All students will receive instruction from both experienced professionals in the field and recent graduates who enjoyed competitive success in high school debate. The synergy of these instructors provides the best quality education.