Special Topics in Social Sciences A: Critical Thinking for the Digital Era
An interdisciplinary approach to the cultivation of Self-Reflection and Critical Thinking for: a) navigating social turbulence and uncertainty, b)making sense of an abundance of information, c)understanding the challenges of Artificial Intelligence and digital media to human cognition, humanitarian values and human rights, and d)exercising choice and self-discipline in the design and use of digital technologies. Complex Systems Analysis, Social and Cognitive Psychology, Neuroscience and Human Rights are frames of reference for students to acquire and apply critical media literacy skills to their own experiences in order to inform their role as citizens, and for understanding the role of socio-cultural sources of bias, values and interests in their vulnerability to diverse digital media. Individual and group projects will be assessed in terms of student articulations of self-reflection and critical thinking in Weekly Learning Summaries, in Class and Online Group Discussions and in Summative Projects. Weekly Essential Questions will scaffold and support deep learning in the context of student interests and concerns.
Weekly Learning Summaries are due Sundays by 8pm (The earlier you submit your Weekly Learning Summary the sooner you can begin to focus on the upcoming week's resources).
*The Summaries are for you to communicate your personal reflections and analysis of the resources with our in class discussions.
*The purpose of the Summaries is to support your in-depth learning and for me to learn how you are processing the resources and in class discussions.
*The objective is for you to practice self-reflection on your own thought processes as a vital feature of critical thinking.
*Weekly Learning Summaries may vary. In addition to 2 to 4 paragraphs, from time to time the Summaries may include Concept Maps, Photo Essays, or even student recorded presentations.
*Weekly Learning Summaries are to be submitted through Moodle.
Student Code of Ethics - https://policies.aua.am/
6.4.2. Cheating. Cheating includes but is not limited to:
6.4.2.1. using or referring to notes, books, devices or other sources of information, including advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT, in completing an Academic Evaluation or Assignment, when such use has not been expressly allowed by the faculty member who is conducting the examination;
Grading -
Components of grading include: Class participation-35%, Weekly Learning Summaries-35%, Summative Presentation-30%. Criteria include: Clarity of articulation of course material, Depth and scope of understanding of resources and participation in class discussions.
- Instructor: Molly Freeman