The American Parliamentary Debate Association (APDA) is an organization that oversees and regulates a specific style of debate known as parliamentary debate in the United States. APDA serves as the umbrella organization for college level parliamentary debate competitions held across the country.
Parliamentary debate is a form of competitive debate where participants engage in a verbal contest that aims to persuade judges and convince the audience about a particular viewpoint on a given topic. APDA organizes and sets the rules for these debates, ensuring a fair and standardized platform for competition.
The association offers a structure for collegiate debaters to hone their skills and compete at various levels, including local, regional, and national tournaments. It also provides a comprehensive ranking system, allowing participants to track their performance and stand out as they progress within the debate circuit.
APDA operates on a unique parliamentary format, where two teams consisting of two debaters each, known as government teams and opposition teams, engage in a series of alternating constructive speeches and rebuttals. The format requires participants to think critically, analyze complex issues, and present their arguments in a concise and persuasive manner.
Through its nationwide network of member institutions, APDA facilitates the exchange of ideas, fosters intellectual growth, and promotes healthy competition among collegiate debaters across the United States. Ultimately, the American Parliamentary Debate Association serves as an integral platform for intellectual discourse, debate, and the development of critical thinking skills for college students.
