Author: Sitti Maesuri Patahuddin, PhD
In a world where communication is the cornerstone of success, educators face the vital challenge of equipping students with advanced communication skills necessary for the 21st century. This op-ed advocates for a transformative approach in educational pedagogy, specifically by integrating the analysis of presidential and vice-presidential candidates’ debates into the curriculum. Such an approach is not merely about engaging students with contemporary political discourse; it aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to articulate complex ideas succinctly. By drawing on real-world examples from these debates, students can gain a deeper understanding of persuasive communication, effective argumentation, and the nuances of public speaking, thereby becoming more competent and confident communicators in an increasingly complex world.
As the 2024 elections in Indonesia approach, five debates featuring presidential and vice-presidential candidates are scheduled to take place before February 14th. These debates, involving three sessions for presidential candidates and two for vice-presidents, are broadcast live, allowing the electorate to directly compare candidates’ visions, policies, and leadership qualities. The debates feature a structured format with moderated discussions on a range of national issues, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the candidates. By facilitating informed decision-making and promoting accountability, these debates play a crucial role in shaping Indonesia’s political landscape.
What has been the result of these debates? They have dominated every sphere of media, from television to social media, generating a turmoil of public critique and fervent supporter debates. This vibrant, sometimes contentious public discourse provides a real-time, authentic context for teaching communication skills. As educators, we should seize this moment to engage our students in critical analysis of these debates. By dissecting the arguments, rhetoric, and strategies employed by the candidates, and examining the diverse public reactions, students can gain invaluable insights into effective communication. This approach not only makes the learning process more relevant and engaging but also equips students with the necessary tools to navigate and contribute to such discussions responsibly. In doing so, we transform a moment of national interest into a powerful educational experience, fostering a generation of skilled, critical, and thoughtful communicators.
The debates present a unique opportunity to glean insights for educational transformation. They offer not only a platform for political discourse but also rich material for enhancing classroom discussions, critical thinking, and civic engagement. By observing and analysing how candidates articulate their visions and respond to challenges, educators can draw parallels and adapt these strategies to foster more engaging, responsive, and thought-provoking learning environments. The debates, therefore, serve as more than just a political milestone; they are a reservoir of pedagogical insights for those committed to transforming the educational landscape.
Understanding our audience—educators and academic leaders—we recognise the need for practical, impactful teaching methodologies. Presidential debates offer a treasure trove of real-world examples. They are not scripted classroom scenarios but genuine high-stakes communication exercises that encapsulate the essence of persuasive, effective discourse.
Consider the Indonesian presidential debate, where candidates masterfully balanced policy explanation with persuasive appeal, or the vice-presidential debate, showcasing the art of rebuttal and the skill of maintaining composure under pressure. These instances provide more than just entertainment; they are vivid, relatable examples for students to analyse and emulate.
The advantages of this approach are manifold. Firstly, by dissecting these debates, students engage in critical thinking—evaluating arguments, discerning biases, and understanding rhetorical strategies. The moment one candidate succinctly summarised complex policy positions, students witnessed the power of clarity in communication. Secondly, the debates exemplify efficient communication. The rapid-fire format forces candidates to convey their messages within strict time limits, a skill increasingly vital in our fast-paced world.
However, educators must navigate this approach with sensitivity and objectivity. Political debates can be polarising, and it is crucial to maintain an educational focus, encouraging students to critique the communication strategies, not the political ideologies.
Our call to action is clear: integrate these authentic examples into the curriculum. Activities like mock debates, analysis essays, and group discussions based on real debate segments can invigorate the learning process, making the development of communication skills more engaging and relevant.
To this end, as we prepare our students for a future where effective communication is key, let us turn to the wealth of learning material presented by presidential debates. This approach not only enriches the educational experience but also ensures that our students step into the world as confident, articulate, and critically-minded communicators, ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
This article was originally published on the Jakarta Post website.