Critical Thinking and Politics (12-Week Version)
Class experience
US Grade 8 - 11
We are going to explore what is meant by the concept of "critical thinking," looking especially at ways in which poor critical thinking affects our behavior. We will distinguish between 'external' and 'internal' critical thinking. External critical thinking is the ability to apply critical thinking skills to assertions and arguments of others. Internal critical thinking is "thinking about your thinking, while you're thinking, in order to improve your thinking." It is this aspect that the...
Students will learn what is meant by "critical thinking." They will learn about "internal" vs. "external" critical thinking. Students will learn concepts from multiple disciplines, including psychology, philosophy, statistics, business and economics, that have concern critical thinking. Students will learn about the various ways in which critical thinking relates to politics in the digital age. These discussions will include concepts such as confirmation bias, echo chambers, and negative partisanship.
I developed and taught Critical Thinking and Politics to university undergraduates for two semesters. I have also taught a one-time version of this course here that is growing in popularity so I would love to offer this 12-week version.
Homework Offered
The students will be assigned about 1/2 to 1 hour of reading per week. All other assignments will take place during class.1 - 2 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
I will assign letter grades for participation and each additional assignment. This together will form the basis of the final grade. Each student will also receive a one-page assessment at the end of the course.Grades Offered
We will be reading book chapters and articles from the following p: Tom Chatfield, Critical Thinking Tom Nichols, The Death of Expertise Chuck Klosterman, But What If We're Wrong? Dan Gardner, Risk Norm Ornstein on Asymmetrical Partisanship David McRaney, You Are Not So Smart
Hi there!! I have been teaching most of my adult life in one form or another. I taught political science courses to undergrads for several years at Old Dominion University here in Norfolk, Virginia. My classes here are intended to help provide...
Group Class
$210
for 12 classes1x per week, 12 weeks
45 min
Completed by 9 learners
Live video meetings
Ages 13-17
3-18 learners per class