Perspective has a Latin root meaning "look through" or "perceive," and all the meanings of perspective have something to do with looking. Perspective taking is the ability to look beyond your own point of view, so that you can consider how someone else may think or feel about something. It's where you consider someone else's thoughts and feelings about something to see things from their perspective. Having perspective is essential for the interpretation of “why” and “how” situations happen and the capacity to respond appropriately. When one can grasp another’s perspective, they are more likely to be empathetic, anticipate other’s behaviour or thinking, handle conflicts peacefully, be less judgmental, value differences, and act in ways that are more helpful, supportive and kind. The activities sourced and designed provide opportunities for children and students to ‘walk in another’s shoes’ and examine different aspects of their own lives. Mastering perspective and sense making is a habit that students need for every part of life—from handling friendship conflicts today to mastering boardroom debates tomorrow.

Debating is a great way to help students develop perspectives, points of view and on balance judgements as well as find their voice. Students will benefit from listening, speaking and critical thinking skills and justifying varying perspectives on a range of topical issues. Those students who are forced to argue against their natural point of view get opportunities to realise there are two sides to the coins!