IDS Network

IDS meetings take place on Fridays from 3:30-5:00 (CST), beginning in the fourth week of September.  IDS balances large class lectures, demos and debates with smaller more personal teaching. Students become part of small groups to facilitate individualized attention.  Students can expect to spend about 1-5 hours outside of class each week, depending on the assignment as well as the student's ability and experience.

The 2009-2010 year we will be going through the new Red Book curriculum based on this years resolution. The 2009-2010 resolution is “Resolved: That competition is superior to cooperation as a means of achieving excellence.”

Beginning debaters are taught debate theory along with the basic structure of debate.  This includes research, discussion, drills, and case writing.  Advanced students will participate in the Research Club and begin with case critiques, debates, drills, and advanced research.

As ideas and cases become solidified, debates begin happening on a weekly basis.  Once cases are fully developed, beginning students will have the opportunity to debate advanced students.  Each debate is followed by an extended critique session with the mentor and fellow students.

Parents are always welcome and are encouraged to help their student as they learn the important skills of critical thinking and debate.  Due to the limited nature of the online format parental involvement is often more necessary in the early stages of learning than might be expected.