Critical Thinking (Online)

Critical Thinking

Keywords:
Culture, Discussion, Presentation, Speaking, Thinking very hard

Fully Online (subject to change depending on how situation develops)

*NOTE: This course is conducted mainly in JAPANESE (students will be required to read materials written in English AND make presentations in English.)
This course is for those who want to think better and to be happier. Students will learn basic critical thinking skills: abilities to analyze and evaluate ideas and arguments skillfully as well as to present ideas and arguments logically and efficiently. Critical thinking is considered a skill to understand and analyze OTHER people's ideas and arguments, but it can also be used to understand YOUR own ideas and thought. Through critical thinking, students will be encouraged to think about themselves: what their values are, who they are, and what they can do to be happier.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:
a) identify conclusions/reasons;
b) analyze reasoning;
c) express arguments clearly;
d) understand assumptions and context;
e) provide evidence;
f) evaluate inferences;
g) seek better options and better ways of thinking;
h) have multiple perspectives;
i) make "good" decisions; and above all,
j) think independently, deeply and carefully.

Attendance and participation: 70%
Completion of assignments: 20%
Final test: 10%

1	Introduction—how much do you think you think?
2	What is critical thinking?—definition and principles of critical thinking
3	Importance of reasons
4	Facts and opinions—can "Mickey Mouse is poluar" be a fact?
5	Identify conclusions and reasons #1
6	Identify conclusions and reasons #2
7	What's behind your thoughts? (Peronal background)
8	What's behind your thoughts? (Hidden assumption)
9	Discussion (pay attention to where your idea comes from) #1
10	Discussion (pay attention to where your idea comes from) #2
11	Understand other people's arguments
12	Pay close attention to words
13	Worst-case scenario—can you take the responsibility?
14	Classification: What can/can't you control? Goal-setting and backward thinking: Where do you want to be in the future?
15	Term-end written test/wrap-up

Class participation is essential. Students are particularly required to vocally respond to questions provided and actively participate in discussions. Materials, when necessary, will be handed out in class.