Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Critical thinking and reasoning are fundamental skills required for rational, evidence-based argumentation. These high order skills are not just necessary for academic studies, but are actively sought by business employers seeking prospective employees with strong reasoning and problem solving skills to ensure continuation of operational productivity. Moreover, educators often demand students to construct cohesive, logically structured expositions to test theoretical knowledge; consequently, this unit aims to explicitly teach components of reasoned argumentation. By scrutinising the anatomy of an argument, students will learn to identify elements of reasoning; distinguish characteristics of varying types of arguments; and recognise elements of faulty reasoning.

Application of this knowledge will enable students to produce reasoned argumentation and possess the ability to critically analyse and evaluate credibility of various arguments in business contexts. Furthermore, within this robust and inquiring environment, students will also develop skills of information processing, problem solving and creative thinking. Finally, the teaching of metacognitive strategies will encourage students to reflect and assess the efficacy of their higher order thinking strategies, a necessary attribute of lifelong learners.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024Taylors CollegeFace to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) apply knowledge of logic to engage in robust methods of questioning and production of credible argumentation; (2) recognise the function of language in relation to ambiguity and types of claim using various text genres; (3) identify techniques of faulty reasoning, assumptions and bias to critically evaluate validity of argumentation of a variety of written and spoken texts; (4) communicate clear, cohesive and logical argumentation; (5) 5. demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address complex issues with

reasoned justification and with a degree of intellectual independence.; and (6) evaluate divergent perspectives and generate new ideas to address complex business discipline

related problems in collaborative learning situations..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) in-class analysis; (2) project; and (3) debate. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Nick Letch
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
the Pre-Masters Program Business
Contact hours
60 hours face-to-face contact comprising 12* tutorial/workshops and 12* collaborative learning sessions.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.