Teaching Theory

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Upper-Level Class Structure and Pedagogical Approach

Welcome to a rigorous and intellectually stimulating environment designed to cultivate advanced critical thinking, analytical writing, and scholarly discourse. Our class sessions will follow a structured format that emphasizes depth of understanding and engagement with complex philosophical arguments:

1. Formal Argument Presentation and Discussion (20 minutes):

• Before class, you will be asked to reconstruct the main argument of the assigned reading in formal, premise-conclusion form.
• At the beginning of class, a few students will be randomly selected to present their reconstructed arguments on the board.
• We will then engage in a detailed discussion of the presented arguments, analyzing their structure, validity, soundness, and implications.
• This collaborative analysis will deepen our understanding of the author's reasoning and highlight potential areas of disagreement or further exploration.

2. Guided Lecture and Discussion (40 minutes):

• Building upon the initial discussion, I will lead a lecture that delves deeper into the author's argument, examining its nuances, implications, and potential weaknesses.
• You are encouraged to actively participate by questioning assumptions, offering alternative interpretations, and engaging in respectful debate.
• The goal is to foster a scholarly community where we collectively grapple with challenging ideas and refine our understanding of complex philosophical issues.

3. Objections, Clarifications, and Final Thoughts (15 minutes):

• This segment is dedicated to addressing any remaining questions, clarifying points of confusion, and exploring potential counterarguments to the author's position.
• I encourage you to think critically about the material and to share your own well-reasoned objections or alternative perspectives.
• This is an opportunity to refine your analytical skills, practice articulating complex ideas, and engage in meaningful intellectual exchange with your peers.

Pedagogical Rationale:

This approach is designed to foster the following skills and dispositions:

• Advanced Critical Thinking: You will be challenged to analyze complex arguments, identify underlying assumptions, and evaluate the strength of evidence.
• Analytical Writing: You will practice reconstructing arguments in a clear and concise manner, a skill essential for scholarly writing.
• Scholarly Discourse: You will engage in respectful debate, learn to articulate complex ideas, and refine your ability to defend your own positions with evidence and reason.
• Intellectual Curiosity: You will be encouraged to explore multiple perspectives, question conventional wisdom, and develop a deeper understanding of philosophical inquiry.

Expectations:

• Come to class prepared, having thoroughly read and analyzed the assigned material.
• Prepare a formal reconstruction of the main argument in premise-conclusion form before each class.
• Actively participate in class discussions and activities.
• Respect the opinions and perspectives of your classmates, even when you disagree.
• Be open to having your own assumptions and beliefs challenged.

By embracing this pedagogical approach, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of complex philosophical concepts but also develop the critical thinking, analytical writing, and communication skills necessary for success in your academic and professional endeavors.