On September 30, 2009,
I was honored to participate in the first e-learning debate at the Oxford
Union in England, sponsored by Epic Performance Improvement, Ltd.
Associated with the prestigious Oxford University, the Oxford Union is
one of the world's premier debating venues. It has played host to some
of the most prominent historical figures - royalty, politicians,
scientists, entertainers - over the last 150 years, across a broad
range of topics and issues. Now, e-learning.
The motion on the floor was: "This house believes that the e-learning of today is essential for the important skills of tomorrow." In spite of my advocacy for e-learning, I was asked to speak against the
motion. I agreed for two reasons. First, speaking against the motion
seemed a more interesting challenge for me, and second, it gave me an
opportunity to focus on improving e-learning rather than accepting the
status quo.
The debate followed standard Oxford debating rules
and yes, required us to appear in formal attire. Each side had four
speakers; I was the lead speaker for the "noes." Of course, the goal
of any debate is to win, and the "noes" prevailed, 144 to 90.
Following the debate, I cast my vote by walking through the "No" door
Watch Highlights of the Debate
Hear what I and the other debaters have to say about the value of today's e-learning. Check out the three YouTube videos on the right.
The first video is an overview of the debate, with some of the more interesting comments from both sides.
The second video is a summary of the main arguments for the motion.
The third video is a summary of the main arguments against the motion.
Participate in the Online Debate and Get More Information on the Venue and Sponsor
Visit the debate's official website to learn more about the speakers, read commentary and participate in the e-learning debate online.
Read a blog post from someone who was there (Clive Shepherd).
Learn more about Epic, the corporate sponsor of the debate.
Learn more about the Oxford Union and Oxford Debating.
