PHIL 115 - Critical Thinking

5 Credits

Analysis of the logic of arguments in a variety of media and the rhetorical use of language and image in argument. Development of the skills and habits of critical discourse: listening, reading, writing and speaking with precision, clarity and creativity.

Fees

Quarters Typically Offered

Fall Day
Winter Day

Designed to Serve Students seeking to improve their critical thinking sills. Students seeking Humanities Distribution credit, Philosophy majors.
Active Date 2011-07-25

Grading Basis Decimal Grade
Class Limit 28
Contact Hours: Lecture 55 Lab 0 Field Studies 0 Clinical 0 Independent Studies 0
Total Contact Hours 55
Degree Distributions:
AA

Humanities Area I

Course Outline
1. Introduction to thinking, reasoning, and decision-making processes. 2. Problem Analysis and Evaluation Skills: a. Breaking down and prioritizing critical issues (problem finding) b. Maximizing options and solutions c. Clarifying life goals and values d. Defining underlying assumptions and basic concepts 3. Arguments Analysis, Evaluation and Construction Skills: a. Identifying reasons, conclusions and patterns in single and multiple level arguments b. Evaluating arguments for truth and logic (validity) c. Identifying common fallacies of reasoning d. Identifying different uses of language in argumentation e. Constructing sound and logical arguments on both sides of an issue (dialogical thinking) from many different perspectives (multi-logical thinking) 4. Other topics often covered: authority and expertise, dealing with feelings and emotions, creativity and imagination, persuasion and negotiation, dialectical and dialogical thinking, openness and fair-mindedness, obstacles to clear thinking, strategies for developing thinking skills.

Student Learning Outcomes
Students will demonstrate analytical, critical, and creative reasoning skills.

Students will demonstrate an ability to apply reasoning skills and techniques in both oral and written modes.

Students will demonstrate an ability to identify and respond to a variety of logical fallacies.

Students will demonstrate an ability to apply practical reasoning skills to personal and professional decisions.