PHL 1010 Critical Thinking Course Learning Outcomes ✓ Solved

PHL 1010, Critical Thinking 1 Course Learning Outcomes for Unit

Upon completion of this unit, students should be able to:

• Formulate questions that result in critical thinking.
• Develop strategies for self-assessment.
• Evaluate decision-making patterns that result in problem solving.

Reading Assignment

• Chapter 2: The First Four Stages of Development: At What Level of Thinking Would You Place Yourself?
• Chapter 3: Self-Understanding

In order for the links below to function properly, you must first log into the myCSU Student Portal and access the Opposing Viewpoints in Context database within the CSU Online Library. You may also access the resource by visiting the Opposing Viewpoints in Context database and performing a search for the title and/or author.

Goldberg, J. (2015). Gun ownership with stricter controls could reduce gun violence. In N. Merino (Ed.), Opposing Viewpoints: Guns and Crime.

Seitz-Wald, A. (2015). Increased civilian gun ownership will not reduce crime. In N. Merino (Ed.), Opposing Viewpoints: Guns and Crime.

Paper For Above Instructions

Critical thinking is an essential skill that allows individuals to analyze arguments and make decisions based on logical reasoning. The study of critical thinking encompasses several key components including the formulation of questions that provoke deep thinking, self-assessment strategies, and the evaluation of decision-making patterns. This paper will explore these components in detail while utilizing assigned readings and real-world examples.

Formulating Questions for Critical Thinking

One of the foundational aspects of critical thinking is the ability to formulate questions that lead to deeper analysis and understanding. Questions should not only seek to uncover facts but also challenge assumptions and explore implications. For instance, a question such as “What are the underlying causes of gun violence?” prompts a critical examination of social, economic, and political factors. Such a question encourages individuals to think critically about the issue rather than accept superficial answers.

Strategies for Self-Assessment

Developing strategies for self-assessment is crucial for fostering critical thinking skills. Self-assessment involves reflecting on one's own reasoning processes and decision-making patterns. For example, after engaging in a debate or analyzing an argument, individuals can ask themselves questions such as: What biases might I have? Did I consider all relevant information? How did my emotions influence my conclusions? Through this reflective practice, individuals can enhance their critical thinking abilities and become more aware of their thought processes (Paul & Elder, 2014).

Evaluating Decision-Making Patterns

Evaluating decision-making patterns is another essential component of critical thinking. It involves analyzing past decisions to understand their outcomes and the reasoning that led to them. For example, consider a decision made in a high-stakes situation, such as whether to impose stricter gun control measures. An evaluation of this decision would involve considering the data on gun violence, public opinion, and the effectiveness of current laws. By scrutinizing the decision-making process and its consequences, individuals can learn how to make more informed choices in the future.

Deductive and Inductive Arguments

Critical thinking also requires an understanding of different types of arguments. Deductive arguments aim to provide conclusive proof for their conclusions. For instance, if all men are humans, and all women are humans, the conclusion that all men are women is logically invalid despite having true premises. In contrast, inductive arguments offer support rather than conclusive proof, relying on evidence that suggests a conclusion. A strong inductive argument is one that draws from a large, representative sample, increasing its reliability.

Application of Paul and Elder’s Intellectual Standards

Paul and Elder’s intellectual standards provide a framework for evaluating the quality of reasoning in arguments. These standards include clarity, accuracy, precision, relevance, depth, breadth, logic, and fairness. When analyzing the arguments presented in the assigned readings, it becomes evident which articles best apply these standards. For example, Goldberg’s argument that stricter gun controls could reduce gun violence exemplifies clarity and relevance by focusing directly on the relationship between control measures and violence rates (Goldberg, 2015). Conversely, Seitz-Wald’s position may lack breadth by not addressing counterarguments significantly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, critical thinking is vital for developing a clear, reasoned approach to decision-making. By formulating effective questions, employing self-assessment strategies, and evaluating decision-making patterns, students will enhance their analytical skills. Additionally, understanding deductive and inductive arguments, along with applying critical assessment standards, will further bolster their ability to engage in critical thinking practices. Over time, these skills not only benefit academic pursuits but also promote informed citizenship and personal growth.

References

• Goldberg, J. (2015). Gun ownership with stricter controls could reduce gun violence. In N. Merino (Ed.), Opposing Viewpoints: Guns and Crime.
• Seitz-Wald, A. (2015). Increased civilian gun ownership will not reduce crime. In N. Merino (Ed.), Opposing Viewpoints: Guns and Crime.
• Paul, R., & Elder, L. (2014). The Miniature Guide to Critical Thinking: Concepts and Tools.
• deLaplante, K. (2014). Basic concepts in logic and argumentation [Video file]. Retrieved from Learning Activities.
• Walton, D. (2008). Informal Logic: A Pragmatic Approach. Cambridge University Press.
• Vaughn, L. (2012). The Power of Critical Thinking: Effective Reasoning About Ordinary and Extraordinary Claims. Oxford University Press.
• Browne, M. N., & Keeley, S. M. (2015). Asking the Right Questions: A Guide to Critical Thinking. Pearson.
• Fisher, A. (2001). Critical Thinking: An Introduction. Cambridge University Press.
• Penslar, R. (2018). The Art of Thinking Clearly: Better Decisions in Life and Work. HarperCollins.
• Heath, C., & Heath, D. (2010). Decisive: How to Make Better Choices in Life and Work. Crown Business.