A conscience alley is a technique for student debate that draws all learners into the collaborative development and presentation of an argument.
Learners work in teams to develop a compelling argument in response to a question set by the teacher, as in a classic debate. In a conscience alley, teams present their arguments at the same time to a neutral adjudicator, who hears both sides then selects the most compelling argument.
This challenges learners to communicate their argument in a manner that is simple enough to understand quickly, yet compelling enough to capture the attention of the adjudicator.
While students are learning from home, this activity can be simplified and facilitated using online word processor tools. The conscience alley can become a written document that engages learners in the same critical thinking, collaboration and persuasive communication as the original activity.