Debate preparation/participation: an active, effective learning tool.
BACKGROUND
Passive educational techniques (such as lectures) are thought to be less productive than active learning.


OBJECTIVE
We examined whether preparing for and participating in a debate would be an effective, active way to learn about a controversial topic.


METHODS
We compared quiz performance in residents who attended a lecture to residents who prepared for/participated in a debate. Twelve residents each participated in one lecture session and one debate session. Learning was evaluated via a quiz. Quizzes were given twice: before the debate/lecture and 1 week after the debate/lecture. Quiz scores were compared using repeated measures analysis of variance, with a p value of < .05 considered significant. A survey evaluating the usefulness of debating was given to all participants.


RESULTS
There was a statistically significant difference in the pretest mean quiz score between the debate and lecture groups: 78.3% and 52.5%, respectively (p = .02). Similarly, on posttest quizzes, the average debater scored 85.8%, versus 61.7% for the lecture group (p = .003). Although no one in the debate group scored lower on a follow-up quiz, 3 residents in the lecture group did worse on follow-up.


CONCLUSIONS
When learning about a controversial topic, residents who prepared for/participated in a debate achieved higher quiz scores and were better at retaining information than those who attended a lecture. When faced with teaching a controversial topic, organizing a debate may be more effective than giving a lecture.
Koklanaris
Nikki
N
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA. nikki.koklanaris@carolinashealthcare.org
MacKenzie
Andrew P
AP
Fino
M Elizabeth
ME
Arslan
Alan A
AA
Seubert
David E
DE
D000046:Academic Medical Centers; D004521:Educational Measurement; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency / Q000379:methods*; D010565:Persuasive Communication; D018794:Problem-Based Learning; D013337:Students, Medical; D013663:Teaching