Debate workshops with Siemens
Over the course of three workshop days in Zurich and Zug, we delivered three debating workshops for Siemens apprentices. Following an introduction to the structure and rules of debating, participants explored a range of socially relevant topics and put their newly acquired skills into practice through their own debates.
Throughout the workshops, the apprentices continuously developed their debating skills. They learned how to build clear and well-reasoned arguments, respond thoughtfully to the contributions of others, and represent different viewpoints in a balanced and objective manner – even when these did not reflect their own personal opinions. Topics included a potential social media ban for minors and the abolition of cash.
What the workshop teaches:
The debating workshop develops skills that extend far beyond debating itself. It focuses on critical thinking, the structured development of arguments, active listening, and respectful, constructive dialogue. Participants gain first-hand experience of the importance of supporting their views with sound reasoning while considering different perspectives.
The workshops were delivered as part of the Unternehmen für Demokratie ("Companies for Democracy") initiative, a programme offered by Pro Futuris that supports businesses in strengthening democratic competencies in the workplace. Our debating workshop forms part of this programme.
The collaboration with Siemens will continue in September, when vocational trainers will take part in a dedicated workshop exploring the fundamentals of debating.
