Exploring the possibilities for inclusive debate with avatar and voice changing technology: a pilot study in Japan

This study examines the use of avatar and voice-changing technology to facilitate debate for individuals with anxiety before a large audience. By anonymizing participants’ identities, these technologies aim to reduce the barriers associated with public speaking. Conducted in Japan, the research involved semi-structured interviews with four experienced debaters, exploring the technologies’ impacts on debate participation and judging fairness. Findings suggest that while such technologies enable broader participation and reduce identity-based biases, they may also impact communication dynamics. This research highlights the potential of reasonable accommodation to make debate more accessible, urging further exploration into its effects on communication and argumentation.