Debate Format

All debates begin with a challenge, followed by two rounds of rebuttal and closing statements. All videos uploaded are subject to moderator approval and can be up to 1 minute in length. Voting becomes live once both closing statements have been uploaded and approved.

Moderators are responsible for approving all video for the topics that create and ensuring that they meet our “Terms of Use”. McLeese Online Debating will remove any topics, debaters or moderators that do not operate within these parameters.

How much does it cost?

McLeese Debating Online is a free service and is part of the greater vision of its founder, Willis S. McLeese. To get more young people across Canada involved in debating.   

Who can participate?

McLeese Debating Online is open to any members of the Canadian educational community. For more information on how to become a moderator and get your school involved please contact the McLeese Chair.

How do I join a debate?

To take part in a debate you must first sign-up for an account.  Once you are signed up, you can view the list of “Current Debates” and select one that has an open position.

What kind of video formats are acceptable for upload?

Any common video format is acceptable (AVI, MPEG, MOV, etc), as long as they are under the 1:00 minute time limit of the debate format. You can use a digital camera, web-cam or cell phone to make the video clips. Please avoid moving the camera during recording. Make your videos in a quiet setting and make sure to speak clearly. 

How do I contact a moderator with questions?

Once you have signed up for a debate, use the “CONTACT MODERATOR” link on the open debate page where you would upload your videos.

Is McLeese Online Debating available in other languages?

A French language version of McLeese Debate Online is currently in production.