PH111.306 - Practical Logic and Critical Thinking Skills
Unit Description
Unit Co-Ordinator: John Capper BE (Hons), BTh (Hons), Dip Min, Dip Soc Sc, Cert IV TAA, PhD
Pre-requisites
None.Co-requisites
None.Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, the student will be able to:
Develop the ability to determine whether or not to accept assertions, sales pitches, proposals, ideas, theories, and other assorted claims
Recognize the patterns of deductive and inductive reasoning
Understand logical fallacies and the ways they influence belief and acceptance
Use a variety of tools to understand and evaluate claims and arguments
Construct sound arguments
Demonstrate ability to use a variety of other critical thinking skills
Unit Content
This unit introduces the student to rhetorical and scientific methods of critical thinking, definition, argument formulation, and logical analysis. Special attention is given to (1) the components, language and analysis of argument, (2) deductive reasoning and (3) inductive reasoning. The primary objective of this class is to develop a capacity and appetite for understanding the philosophic and practical applications of logic.
This is important for two primary reasons. It develops skills that students may employ in the construction of valid arguments and it enhances the ability to evaluate and analyse the arguments of others. This unit is more concerned with developing the process of critical thinking rather than any specific focus on content. Application will be made to both daily living and ministry/theological formation contexts.
The learning outcomes are achieved by helping the student to develop an understanding of the principles behind logical argument and helping them to apply those principles. Thus the approach to this class will be oriented toward the development of practical contextually appropriate skills. It will be necessary for students to exercise and practise those skills in context. Class sessions will offer students opportunities for skill development and use.
Teaching Strategies
This will be a classroom-based taught unit. Lectures, tutorials and seminars will be utilised as appropriate.
Textbook Information
Brooke, N. M. and R. Parker, (2004). Critical Thinking (7th Edn.). New York: McGraw and Hill.