ABSTRACT
The International Debate Education Society comprises a worldwide network of organisations that educates young people in debate as one means of giving voice to their ideas. Debate in science education can take place in each and any of these quadrants. It is possible, then, to recognise debates that take place in academic spheres, in the national media, within educational circles, at local institutional levels and so on. Argumentation and debate are a core part of science. An important element of the scientific enterprise is the ability to understand and practise valid ways of arguing in a scientific context. The intention in each case is to ‘bring the debate home’ so that even the most elevated and philosophical of issues can be seen to impact on everyday science education. It is becoming increasingly clear that science education has failed to deliver on its prime objective of providing a scientifically literate population.
