"A debate is much more than a few people arguing about something. It is an opportunity for intelligent people who have informed themselves on an issue to exchange ideas and formulate arguments regarding an important policy or decision."
For tips on preparing for a debate, see: http://www5.wittenberg.edu/sites/default/files/media/occ/forms/debate.pdf
StepsInTheResearchProcess
Oral Communication Center, Preparing for a Debate. Wittenberg University, Retrieved February 6, 2014.