ETHICS DEBATE

Overview:

Each team will debate one ethical issue that deals with technology. Some samples are listed on the Ethics page or the group can choose their own topic to be approved. Each side will fully state their case in a discussion board. Then, everyone will have an opportunity to post to whatever topics they like (with a minimum of 1 argument on their own topic). At the end of the discussion, everyone will vote to determine the class majority view.

Procedure:

In class:

• Find your assigned topic: 9:25 class 12:15 class. Look on the Blackboard discussion board to find the topic for your group.
• You can choose a different topic if you want. No two groups can choose the same topic. Within one group, one side must be pro and the other con.
• A discussion group will be opened for each topic. Teams will divide their opening argument points into at least one point per person. (One point can be a thorough description of current laws.) Each person will research their point.
• Each member of the team will use the blackboard discussion group (titled Ethics Topic x) to present one point to support their side. Their argument should be supported by a cited fact or referenced work.
• Some Information that might help: csc170ethics.html

On Web Intro Day:

• Everyone must then post at least 1 rebuttal comment that directly addresses a point on the opposing side of their topic. That comment must be at least 2 sentences (to avoid useless statements such as "I agree with that.").
• Anyone can post on other topics as well.
• (Hints on developing a good debating argument: - hit the problem head on with opposing facts; - argue that their fact is merely an opinion; - argue that their fact is not statistically valid; - argue that their point is immaterial to the argument.)

On Web Card Day:

• Research your topic on the internet. Be sure you have posted both one good point for your side and a rebuttal to someone else's argument. Be sure your argument is clear and strong and supported by a fact or quote if needed. (If your argument is about your opinion, it should have some support.)

On Web Page 2 Day:

• Read through the postings in every debate and vote on the winning argument for each topic. Consider how well the case was argued, not just how whether you would prefer one or the other to win.

GRADING:

50% - initial argument - needs to clearly state a point and, if it is an opinion, be supported by a citation or fact.

40% - argument comments - needs to present a comment that really adds to the debate. Commenting on other topics helps this grade if your argument on your own debate is not very strong.

10% - voting reason - needs a good reason for voting for a  side in all debates.

To get 100%, you must argue effectively, and on time.