I hope you all get a chance to congratulate yourselves on work well done before the craziness of the Christmas season settles in. I can’t believe it is Dec. 8, already. I don’t think I could have asked for a better “first class” introduction for return to studies. 
      I really enjoyed using the debates as a learning tool. At first I was intrigued however, not quite sure how things would flow. When I received my debate topic I was at first “oh great how am I ever going to debate the pro side of overtime “The more I talked about it and researched I began to feel more optimistic and challenged. While preparing at first I thought it was not going to be difficult, then trying to find the supporting data I was worried. Once I decided on the format and reviewed the styles of previous debaters I was excited to see how my “take” on things would be discussed by the class. The week of the debates was stressful and putting the info out to the class was a relief. The rebuttal preparation was challenging as I did not want to be disrespectful to my opponent. Reflecting that it was not personal and sticking to the “issue” helped me proceed with the process. In management every day I have to weigh issues and look at all sides and be try not to get personal. This debate process was a good reminder that when discussing issues or scenarios as nurse leaders you have to take yourself out of the equation and look at what is best for the client and the organization. It is not “personal “ . I am a very  “ Blue “ , people, feeling orientated in my decision making.( “ Personality Colors” )  It was a little bit intimidating in the beginning to give feedback as I did not want to discourage anyone or come across as too abrasive in comments. After the flow of the first couple of debates I we all got over our initial trepidation and we had some very interesting commentaries.
      Overall I did enjoy the debates as a learning tool. The debates required critical analyzes and thinking skills. The replies to the debates also challenged my presentation and writing skills as I wanted to present a reply that was intelligent and well thought out.  Some weeks better than others but as learning tool it was very good. 
      The debates also allowed the class to gain a comfort level and get to know each other better than an different kind of forum postings.