Module Specifications
Academic Year 2026 - 2027
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Description This course introduces first year undergraduate students to the principles of critical thinking and how to apply these principles for the purposes of academic discussion. The module takes the position that great minds don’t always think alike and emphasises the positives of viewpoint diversity for a vibrant academic community and campus culture. Students are asked to consider issues of free speech, ‘no-platforming’, and the merits and downsides of engaging in intellectual arguments with those with whom we disagree. The topics to explore, think about, and debate include those of ‘confirmation bias’, ‘group think’, and the question of where to draw the line between freedom to express any opinion and the times when it may be necessary to outlaw certain viewpoints. The module teaches the skills of evaluating evidence and effective argument construction, as well as the importance of skepticism and curiosity over cynicism and conspiracy type thinking; good humour and intellectual humility over dogmatism; and encourages embracing the discomfort of having our views and values challenged. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Engage with the concepts of critical thinking and put these into practice 2. Develop an aptitude for open inquiry and open-mindedness 3. Demonstrate an ability to parse facts from rhetoric and evaluate which facts are important to the issue at hand 4. Analyse intellectual problems and effectively communicate their analysis to their peers 5. Demonstrate intellectual and emotional growth by showing evidence of avoiding dogmatic and entrenched viewpoints 6. Demonstrate an ability to disagree 'constructively' as well as a willingness to change one’s mind 7. Ability to consider multiple viewpoints | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Weeks 1-3 Present and discuss the principles and key concepts of critical thinking as outlined through a variety of texts Week 4-5 Provide an overview of arguments that touch on issues of Viewpoint Diversity and Academic Culture Week 6 Review lecture materials, weeks 1-5, and apply these ideas and principles to real-world examples and controversies (with a focus on university campuses) Weeks 8-9 Focus on specific skills and tools that students can hone to improve their ability to read critically, and to conceptualise clear, coherent, and logical arguments Weeks 10-11 In-class activities that practice skills relevant to critical reading, and the development of clear written communication skills appropriate to an academic context. The objective is to enhance confidence and competency in assessing various viewpoints, and in planning and delivery of oral presentations and written reports. Week 12 Recapping main ideas covered in the module. Provide an opportunity for students to ask questions about their final assignment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles:
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Other Resources None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||