The Online Debate Platform is a web-based application that enables users to participate in structured debates on various topics, either live or asynchronously. It provides a moderated space where participants can present arguments, rebuttals, and closing statements while spectators can watch, vote, and comment.

Key Features

1. User Authentication & Profiles

   • Sign up/login via email or social accounts.

   • Profile with bio, debate history, and skill level.

2. Debate Creation & Joining

   • Users can host a debate by selecting a topic, rules, and format (Oxford, Lincoln-Douglas, freestyle).

   • Others can join as debaters or audience members.

3. Real-Time Debate Mode

   • Live video/audio debates using WebRTC or integrated streaming.

   • Timer controls for each speaker’s turn.

4. Text-Based Debate Mode

   • Users submit written arguments in fixed time intervals.

   • Structured rounds: opening, rebuttals, and closing statements.

5. Voting & Judging System

   • Audience members vote for winners after the debate.

   • Option for expert judges to provide feedback.

6. Comment & Discussion Section

   • Live chat or forum-style discussion for spectators.

7. Topic Categories & Search

   • Politics, technology, science, education, ethics, etc.

   • Search and filter by topic, difficulty, or popularity.

8. Leaderboards & Badges

   • Rankings based on win rate, participation, and audience score.

   • Achievement badges for milestones.

Technology Stack

• Frontend: HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, JavaScript (React/Vanilla JS for dynamic UI)

• Backend: PHP / Java / Node.js (for debate management, scoring, and chat handling)

• Database: MySQL / MongoDB (for user profiles, debate records, votes)

• Optional: WebRTC / Socket.IO for real-time communication, Firebase for live chat

Workflow

1. User Registration – Create account or log in.

2. Debate Setup – Select topic, format, and rules.

3. Joining & Roles – Assign roles: Proposer, Opposer, Moderator, Audience.

4. Debate Rounds – Each speaker gets allocated speaking/writing time.

5. Voting & Feedback – After the debate, votes and comments are submitted.

6. Results & Ranking – Winner announced, stats updated.