In many academic debates, debaters talk about the rules of debate and the nature of debate theory more than the actual topic. Debates are decided by the argumentation alone. Parliamentary debate balances substance with style. There are advantages to both styles. Academic debate teaches strong research skills, and how to analyse large amounts information very quickly.
Parliamentary debate teaches speaking skills more relevant to everyday life.
Both styles of debate teach confidence, logic, quick thinking and leadership skills. High school debate is still very new in Japan. Some English teachers have already organised a league in Nagano Prefecture, and more will no doubt follow. Japanese-language debate is very new, and is being promoted by the Japan Debate Association. At this stage, all Japanese-language debating is done in the academic style.