University Studies Course Approval Form

8. This is a new course proposal No

approved by A2C2:

9. University Studies requirement this

course would satisfy: Critical Analysis

10. Department Contact Person: Ted Reilly 457-5238 ereilly@vax2

11. General Course Outcomes: The following outcomes are listed on the courses syllabus (attached): identify and classify types of arguments; identify and distinguish between various types of claims advanced; evaluate and critique the strengths, weaknesses and relevancy of evidence; evaluate and critique the different types of reasoning; understand the similarities and differences of argument presented in different argument fields; understand and be able to use various models of argument.

12. Course Outcomes:

a. evaluate the validity and reliability of information;

A significant portion of the course is devoted to the study of evidence. This includes identifying types of evidence (statistical data; testimony; narrative; etc), using tests of evidence to ensure validity, and examining the strength of evidence presented to substantiate claims in argument. Class exercises and assignments include research requirements and examinations of such data collected. There are reading assignments on evidence and several class periods are devoted to the evaluation of information.

b. analyze modes of thought, expressive works, arguments, explanations, or theories;

The study of argumentation itself is treated as the study of modes of thought and expression. Various typologies of arguments and reasoning are considered in this course, including classical models such as inductive and deductive arguments, as well as the more contemporary approaches such as narrative modes of argument and Toulmin’s model. Attention is then given to argument practices in specialized fields such as science, religion, politics, business, and interpersonal situations. By the end of the course, the student will have demonstrated an ability to evaluate the validity of claims, strength and relevance of reasoning and evidence as appropriate to various contexts.

c. recognize possible inadequacies or biases in the evidence given to support arguments or conclusions; and

The ability to evaluate evidence is paramount to critical thinking. As such, the student is expected to leave this course with strong abilities to look evaluate the strengths of evidence and reasoning as they are related to claims advanced. Significant attention is paid to the evaluation of evidence for accuracy, relevance and bias, (as noted above). The course devotes significant time and depth to the study of reasoning as well, examining the relationships between evidence and claims for validity. Common fallacies of evidence and reasoning are studied and the student is expected to leave the course with the ability to detect and repair such inadequacies.

d. advance and support claims

Throughout the course, students have repeated opportunities to advance and support claims. The syllabus calls for several weeks devoted to the study of claims and evidence. Students also participate in argumentative exercises included in formal academic debating. All students are required to participate. By the end of the term, each student will have studied how to advance, support, and critique claims, as well as participated in a formal debate.

CMST 375 ARGUMENTATION
SPRING, 2001

Dr. Ted Reilly | Office: 204, PAC | 457-5238
Hours: MWF 9-10; 12-1; MW 2-4  TTH by appt.| Ereilly@vax2

Text: Hollihan, T & Baaske, K. (1998). Arguments and arguing.  Prospect Heights, IL: Waveland. 

*** There will be articles on reserve in the library for reading throughout the semester.

Course Description: This course investigates and applies basic principles of argumentation to varied discourse contexts. Attention will be paid to understanding theoretical models of argument and critical thinking, as well as being able to apply those models and skills in a variety of communication contexts. Specifically, the course will enhance and refine students' abilities to:

1. identify and classify types of arguments
2. identify and distinguish between various types of claims advanced
3. evaluate and critique the strengths, weaknesses and relevancy of evidence
4. evaluate and critique the different types of reasoning
5. understand the similarities and differences of argument presented in different argument fields. 
6. understand and be able to use various models of argument

Late Policy: Late projects will be reduced up to 20% for each period late. Make your 1st priority delivering projects on time.

Attendance:  This is a three hundred level class.  As such, more is expected of you.  This is especially the case in class preparation and discussion.     3 free absences for whatever reason. Thereafter, 15 pts apiece deducted from final grade.  I do not keep track of excuses, and I do little to distinguish between excused and unexcused absences.    

Academic Integrity: All work presented in this class should be no less than 100 percent your own. All violations are handled through University Judicial System.

Writing/Speaking considerations: All work turned in for a grade (papers, outlines) are to be cleanly typed, double spaced. Keep papers and speeches free from profanity, racism, sexism, etc. Be civil. 

Grade Calculation: The course runs on a standard grade scale (95= middle A 85=B 75=C 65=D). Plus/minus are assigned to individual projects (plus grades= 68, 78, 88; minus grades= 72, 82, 92) not to final grade. Your grade is always available to you. You can also keep track with the column on the right.