The way we handle Debate Hall admissions is a little different. We essentially have a trial room, the Proving Grounds. This is where potential Debaters "prove" that they are capable of debating at a level that would make them good candidates for the actual Debate Hall. This is to ensure a certain level of quality of discussion in the Debate Hall. Don't worry, it's not like we have super-high standards and expect you to be perfect in every way or something. As long as you are reasonably capable of debating and forming coherent sentences and arguments, you'll be let in. If we believe you're not ready for the Debate Hall, you'll be allowed to remain in the Proving Grounds to develop your skills until you are ready for the Debate Hall.
You must first post in the Proving Grounds. To gain access to the Proving Grounds, you must apply to join the Temp Debater group in the User CP.
To do this, click on "User CP" in the upper left corner of the website. Then, look at the navigation bar on the left and under Networking, click "Group Memberships". You'll be presented with a list of user groups you can join. Click the bubble for "Temp Debater" and then click the "Join Group" button. One of the Debate Hall mods will approve your request, and you'll have full posting rights in the Proving Grounds.
Note: I and the other mods try to regularly check the Join Group requests, but we are (unfortunately) only human and sometimes forget. If it's been a few days and your Temp Debater request hasn't been approved, feel free to leave a visitor message on my or Sucumbio's profile, or send us a PM.
Once you're in the Proving Grounds, just post regularly in the debates there.
The DHers will keep an eye on the PG, posting there occasionally. If they think you are good enough for DH admission, it will be discussed in this thread in the DH. Alternatively, if you think you're ready for admission to the DH, post in this thread in the PG and make a case for yourself. There is no minimum amount of time we require you to be in the PG before being allowed in the DH. If you're ready, you're ready. Simple as that.
If we believe you're ready for the main Debate Hall, go ahead and apply for the Debaters group in the User CP.
A DH mod will approve your request and you'll get a snazzy pink name to boot. Congratulations! At this point you'll be allowed to post in the Debate Hall proper.
Again, our standards really aren't that high! I say this because I know the process looks difficult at first, but it's really not. We're not looking for super-geniuses with PhDs in philosophy. We're just looking for good members who will foster intelligent discussion. If you fit the bill, we'll let you in.
So to recap:
1) Apply for Temp Debater membership in the User CP for posting rights in the Proving Grounds
2) Debate and make posts in the Proving Grounds. You'll be noticed and discussed for DH admission. If you yourself believe you're ready, make a case for yourself in The Center Stage thread.
3) If the DHers agree that you're ready, apply for membership in the Debaters group in the User CP. If DHers think you're not ready, stick around a while longer in the Proving Grounds and work on your skills. There's no set or minimum amount of time you have to be in the Proving Grounds. Whenever you're ready for the Debate Hall, you'll be let in.
That's it! Three easy steps!
Good luck and good debating. We look forward to seeing you.
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