Point-Counterpoint
Complimentary Tool for Active Meetings!

Overview

This activity is an excellent technique to stimulate discussion and gain a deeper understanding of complex issues. The format is similar to a debate, but is less formal and moves more quickly.

Procedure

1. Select an issue that has two or more sides.
   
   For example, the former chairman of the board of a company that employs about five hundred people has died and left a large sum in his will for a project to be selected by the employees. Workers are sharply divided between building a fully equipped fitness center and setting up an on-site library for employees. Compelling arguments have been offered for each project.:
   
   
2. Divide the participants into subgroups according to the number of positions that have been stated. Ask each subgroup to come up with arguments to support its position. Encourage subgroup members to work with partners or in small cluster groups.
   
   
3. Reconven the entire group, but ask members of each subgroup to sit together with space between the subgroups.
   
   

4. Explain that any participant can begin the debate. After that participant has had an opportunity to present one argument in favor of his or her assigned position, allow a different argument or counterargument from a member of another subgroup. Continue the discussion, making sure that all positions are presented.
   

5. Conclude the activity by summarizing and comparing the different positions. Allow for follow-up reactions and discussion.
   

Variations

1. Instead of holding a full-group debate, pair up individual participants from different subgroups and have them argue with one another. This can be done simultaneously, so that every participant is engaged in the debate at the same time.
   
   
2. Line up two opposing subgroups so that they are facing each other. As one person concludes his or her argument, have that participant then toss an object (such as a ball or a beanbag) to a member of the opposing side. The person catching the object must rebut the previous person's argument.

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Mel Silberman

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