COLLEGIATE ADVOCACY
RESEARCH & DEBATE
Committed to training future advocates through evidence, analysis,
communication, and community.
WELCOME TO CARD
Collegiate Advocacy, Research, and Debate is both an organization for intercollegiate debate programs and a format of competitive debate rooted in evidence and advocacy, yet accessible, realistic, and enriching for a diversity of college students. The format is particularly geared for college students with limited prior debate experience. CARD has four major educational goals.
FORMAT GOALS
Scholarship
Immerse students in scholarly literature related to pressing social and political controversies.​
Argumentation
Develop skill with building, testing, and critiquing arguments for a diversity of educated audiences.
Problem-solving
Develop critical and strategic thinking skills, including working cooperatively with others.​
Community
​Fostering an inclusive community committed to the growth and success of all members.
FORMAT BASICS
Article Library
The CARD format features an article library constructed by participating programs. Consisting of a variety of scholarly and topical sources, the article library is the sole source of quoted evidence in debates. The library is also expanded and revised throughout the topic cycle as participants’ arguments evolve.
90 Minute Debates
From the release of the pairing to the oral critique, rounds last 1 and a half hours, including 30 minutes for pre-round disclosure and preparation. All students deliver a 6-minute constructive, 4-minute rebuttal, and a 2-minute cross-examination period (both asking and answering questions). Each round concludes with a decision and critique delivered by the critic.
Humane & Fun Events
CARD tournaments stress the importance of a humane and realistic schedule. Hosts are encouraged to offer 5-6 preliminary rounds and 1-2 elimination rounds, limit total event time to one and a half days, and reserve time for community bonding, relaxation, and even homework.