BRIDGING THE SKILLS GAP THROUGH AI-POWERED DEBATE: ENHANCING PROBLEM-SOLVING AND DECISION-MAKING IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Abstract

Universities and colleges everywhere are starting to realize that academic knowledge is no longer sufficient. Students today aren’t just in need of information; they require critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and decision-making capabilities to solve issues in real-world scenarios. Unfortunately, most students still graduate from institutions of higher learning without adequately acquiring these critical competencies, creating an increasing gulf between what’s being taught and what’s required in life and in employment. In an effort to close this gap, teachers are adopting more student-centered, engaging approaches. Debate, long a stalwart for honing communication and critical thinking, is gaining fresh saliency—if coupled with artificial intelligence. AI-based debate tools promise fascinating potential: instant feedback, practice with complex scenarios, and deepened thought with tailored challenges. In this article, we discuss how to incorporate AI into debate learning to improve students’ problem-solving and decision-making capabilities. By combining customary learning methods with contemporary technology, we can design learning spaces that properly prepare students not only for exams, but for life after class.