Expand opportunities for women in debate. Debate has long been an activity whose demographics suggested a strong preference for white males. However, it has been the mission of the Barkley Forum and a goal of the UDLs to not only increase opportunities for men from underserved backgrounds but also to increase the number of women who have access to debate opportunities. We have developed programs especially to increase female participation in academic debate. Expand support for schools in less-densely populated areas.
Training is more easily available for teachers and students.
We need to find a way to sustain programs in less densely populated regions where travel to tournaments can be time-consuming and expensive. Expand support for teacher training and debate in all areas of the State. A key element if any successful debate program is teacher commitment. We are seeking ways to improve teacher incentives to coach debate, provide easy access to curriculum and training material, and to provide increase access to high school debate institutes run by various universities throughout Georgia and the nation. Conduct research into debate as a part of curriculum and alternative school curriculum.