Critical Thinking

This is an ideal course for anyone interested in studying or learning more about philosophy.  

We will cover the fundamentals of critical thinking including the basic structure and components of arguments, some of the common mistakes people make when thinking or arguing, plus practical ways to strengthen our own skills in identifying and evaluating arguments.

You will learn how to recognise reasoning in different types of communication and how to put ideas into clear, logical steps, and explore the difference between conclusions based on certainty (deductive) and those based on probability (inductive).

Any essential or recommended reading will be shared by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a device with an internet connection. 

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course, you should be able to:  

• Identify arguments and clearly express them in their own words;
• Construct arguments in simple logical form;
• Evaluate simple arguments for their validity and soundness;
• Recognise common fallacies in reasoning. 

No previous experience is required.  

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.  

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.  

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s accessible and inclusive learning policy.

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support. 

This course is suitable for those with no prior experience of university study.  

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Please note that the course booking deadline is 8 days before the course start date