Economic Thinking/Deliberative Dialogues

As an educator I have dedicated my career to empowering young minds. I believe in nurturing debaters who are not just skilled in rhetoric but are also well-rounded, informed individuals capable of shaping their FUTURE. As the Director of Vancouver Debate Academy (VDA), I’ve identified a crucial gap in debate education: the apprehension towards economic topics among young debaters.

Economics is often perceived as a complex, technical field, cloaked in intimidating terms and concepts. It’s a subject that even seasoned debaters approach with caution. However, avoiding economics is not an option in the diverse landscape of debate topics and life. It’s imperative for debaters to engage with economics confidently and competently.

At VDA we aim to address this challenge, therefore, we are proud to launch the ‘Deliberative Dialogues’. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to student empowerment. Our goal is to transform how young debaters perceive and engage with economic topics. The dialogues will focus on four approaches: 

  • Finance Familiarity: We simplify economics by relating it to real-world scenarios and current events.
  • Interactive Instruction: Debates, simulations, and discussion form the core of our learning process.
  • Economic Experts: Students receive guidance from mentors who have mastered the art of economic debate.
  • Commerce Confidence: We focus on building confidence and curiosity in our students.

As we continue to advocate for student empowerment, I firmly believe in the power of voice and the importance of controlling one’s future. Through Deliberative Dialogues, we’re not just teaching economics; we’re instilling a sense of control and confidence in our students to tackle any subject. 

I want to invite you to be a part of this transformative journey. Follow our Deliberative Dialogues and share your insights. What other topics do you think young debaters shy away from? Your input is crucial in shaping our program to cater to all aspects of debate education. 

At Vancouver Debate Academy, we are redefining debate education. It’s not just about winning arguments; it’s about understanding the world and one’s role in it. By incorporating economics into our curriculum, we are preparing our students for life, not just for the debate floor.