An Expert Interview Study on Enhancing the Discussion Model and Evaluation Criteria for University Reading Debate Competitions

This study analyzes interviews with debate experts who participated as judges in the reading debate competition held at Sookmyung Women's University to explore possible improvements to the competition. The study examines the appropriateness of the debate model and evaluation methods used in the competition and discusses new strategies for more effective management in future iterations. The interviews highlighted key issues related to the competition’s operation, including the selection of designated books, the formulation of debate topics, and challenges associated with online implementation. As for the debate model, a format that places greater emphasis on ‘reading’ and fosters critical collaboration and in-depth discussions was proposed. Regarding evaluation criteria, the study underscores the importance of assessing students’ abilities in summarizing and presenting books, analyzing texts, demonstrating critical thinking, and refining opinions and problem-solving skills. Based on these findings, the study suggests revisions to the competition’s management, debate model, and evaluation methods to enhance students’ reading comprehension, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving skills, ultimately fostering a more advanced and meaningful reading debate competition.