"In a Critical Debate, individual students select the side of an issue that is contrary to their own views. They then form teams and discuss, present, and argue the issue against an opposing team. Preparing for, participating in, and listening to debates offers many benefits to students. Debates can increase motivation, enhance research skills, promote critical thinking, and develop communication proficiency. Debates expose the class to a focused, in-depth, multiple-perspective analysis of issues. Because Critical Debates have the added dimension of requiring students to assume a position opposite to their own, they encourage students to challenge their existing assumptions. This can move students beyond simple dualist thinking, deepen their understanding of an issue, and help them to recognize the range of perspectives inherent in complex topics. In this way, Critical Debate may also build appreciation for diversity and develop tolerance for other viewpoints." — Collaborative Learning Techniques, Barkley, EF, Cross, KP and Major, CH, 2005