In a study of Chicago public-school students, debate participants were more likely to meet college-readiness benchmarks in the English, Reading and Science sections of the ACT. Greater participation was also associated with stronger ACT results.
What the source says
The researchers examined a high-school debate program over a ten-year period. Their analysis considered students’ earlier achievement and other indicators of academic risk.
How to read the finding
College-readiness benchmarks are academic measures. This study did not measure admission to selective colleges, and it did not test the effects of a Capitol Debate summer session. Its findings describe associations in school debate.
A practical takeaway for parents
Consider debate as an opportunity to build academic habits through sustained practice. Ask how a program develops reading, reasoning, evidence use and communication, then how your child might continue participating after summer.
Susannah Anderson and Briana Mezuk (2012), Journal of Adolescence. DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2012.04.005.
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