George Mason Debate Institute

George Mason Debate Institute

Hosted by George Mason University, the GMDI is one of the largest debate summer camps in Virginia. We offer introductory and intermediate classes for rising 6-9 graders with both in person and online options. We are also offering online, introductory classes for rising 10-12 graders. With small class sizes, a dedicated teaching staff, and lots of experience, the GMDI is the place to be in 2022! The GMDI’s motto, modeled after George Mason University, is “Innovation is Tradition.” The institute aims to foster skills development in many areas, including in-depth research, critical thinking, persuasion, argumentation, and overall communication.

2022 DATES AND PRICES
Camp Dates: Monday August 8 – Saturday, August 13, 2022
Time: 9am to 3pm
Cost: $450

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the process for admission?

Unlike many camps, George Mason Debate Institute accepts all applicants who apply within the admission period. We hire more assistants based on our numbers to ensure a student to faculty ratio of 8:1. Students are able to enroll in the style of debate that they are interested in participating in, and they will be placed in the appropriate skill level after a diagnostic we send prior to the camp.

When is the application deadline?

July 15th

What is a typical day?
(all times EST)

Morning Routine at 9am
Lab Learning Time at 9:30am-11:30am
Debate Game at 11:30am
Lunch from 12:00-12:30pm
Regroup Activity from 12:30-1:00pm
Lab Learning Time from 1:00-2:30pm
Debate Activity from 2:30-3:00pm

What platform will you use for online instruction?

George Mason University’s university Zoom account platform for classes. This is the platform that many George Mason University professors have chosen for online classes, and we believe it is the best option to ensure ease of access our campers. We will also be using Google Classrooms for sharing resources used during class.

What are the technological requirements for the online camp?

Students attending the online sessions of the GMDI are required to have a computer, camera (external or on their computer), microphone (external or on their computer), and access to reliable internet. If you are interested in our recommendations for other technology, please visit our Tech Checklist, available for download below.

Ca​n you tell me the names of other people from my area attending the camps?

No. It’s institute policy to keep everyone’s information private.

Are partner requests guaranteed?

Yes, in most cases. However, requests must be made in advance by both parties via email.

How much free time will we have?

Not a great deal. Most of your time at the institute is structured. However, to ensure proper time during the day for meals and “off screen” time, we schedule in break times.

Can I pay part of the tuition at registration and the rest at the end of the camp?

No. Tuition in full is due June 15th.

Can I get my deposit or tuition reimbursed if we do not attend the camp?

GMDI payments are refundable until April 21st. After April 21st no payments are refundable. This is necessary because we have to hire staff based on our hard numbers at this point.

Can I make payments with credit cards?

Our preferred method of payment is credit card using our online portal. GMDI also accepts payment via check, money order, or cash. Payments can be mailed to our address at: George Mason University, Jackie Poapst, Department of Communication, 4400 University Drive, MSN 3D6, Fairfax, VA, 22030.

Are scholarship opportunities available?

We have a small amount of scholarship funding available on a needs base. Please contact Jackie Poapst at jpoapst@gmu.edu for information.

View Debate Camp page

Return to Camps and Workshops Home page