Course Syllabus
Critical Thinking and Creative Problem Solving
Course Description
This course explores the process of inquiry and problem solving through critical and creative thinking. Topics covered will include identifying and assessing data, convergent and divergent thinking, challenging assumptions, and using critical and creative thinking to evaluate arguments and solve problems.
Essential Objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Distinguish between convergent and divergent thinking and how each is applied in the research process.
- Distinguish appropriate authoritative and credible information sources based on the topic of interest.
- Critically analyze data sets to identify patterns and formulate questions.
- Identify and challenge assumptions that may interfere with problem-solving.
- Employ logic and reasoning to evaluate arguments, draw conclusions, and make recommendations for improvement.
Textbooks & Technology
Required Textbooks:
There are no required textbooks for this course. All required readings and resources will be provided in the modules.
Modular Topics
- Module 1: Overview of Critical Thinking; Convergent & Divergent Thinking
- Module 2: Gather and Assess Relevant Information
- Module 3: Identify Patterns and Assumptions
- Module 4: Manage Ambiguity and Question Assumptions
- Module 5: Thinking Logically and Creatively to Draw Conclusions
Suggested Progression
This is a self-paced asynchronous course which means that students will be starting and progressing at different rates throughout the term. Once you feel like you have a strong handle on the material, and you have completed all of the assignments for the module, you should feel comfortable moving on, regardless of the pace, as long as you complete the course within the term timeframe.
Grading
Your final grade will be based on the following assessments:
| Assignment Category | Grade Weight Percentage |
|---|---|
| Demonstrate Your Learning Forums & Assignments | 30% |
| Assignments | 20% |
| Badge Assessments | 50% |
| Total | 100% |
Assignments Overview
Your learning modules will consist of learning resources, demonstrate your learning forums, module assignments, and badge assessments.
Demonstrate Your Learning forums are a part of every learning module and most are post-first discussions which means that you will post your reply before seeing the replies of others. Discussions will be graded based on the following rubric:
| Exceeds Expectations | Meets Expectations | Approaching Expectations | Does Not Meet Expectations | Points | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Knowledge | 5 pts | 4 pts | 3 pts | 2 pts | 5 points |
| Analysis & Reflection | 5 pts | 4 pts | 3 pts | 2 pts | 5 points |
| Writing Skills | Excellent mechanics, sentence structure, and organization (5 points) |
Significant mechanics, structure and organization (4 points) |
Some grammatical lapses, uses emotional response in lieu of relevant points (3 points) |
Poor grammar, weak communication (2 points) |
5 points |
| Application | 5 pts | 4 pts | 3 pts | 2 pts | 5 points |
| Total Points: | 20 points |
Student Support & Policies
Please review the following policies and support services:
Course Summary:
| Date | Details | Due |
|---|---|---|