Course Details

In a polarized world where people’s minds are made up, and facts don’t count unless they support preexisting viewpoints, we need to exert effort to pursue truth. To do this, we must exercise careful judgment in evaluating information, particularly material that comes to us over the Internet, especially news. This course is designed to help you teach your students to approach all the information they receive with a critical attitude, asking, for example: What's the source? What do I know about the author? How does this information square with other sources? Is it reasonable? Should I check Snopes?

This course first provides a brief introduction to Critical Thinking as viewed by a philosopher. His material reflects basic logic, construction of arguments, and an ultimate aim to sway others' beliefs. This information is followed by a pragmatically oriented guide written by a school librarian and an educational consultant. Their material provides resources for teachers to use in helping their students navigate the flood of information they address daily. Resources are available for all levels. All are engaging, and some are even amusing. All have the underlying severe intent of teaching us how to be careful judges of what we read.

Professional development courses for teachers. 

Top Reasons to Enroll:

•   Self-paced coursework
•   Academic and Administrative support
•   Free transcripts are sent upon completion
•   Electronic transcripts available for a nominal fee
•   Earn semester credits from a WASC accredited university
•   Registration includes all course materials
•   eBooks available on select courses
•   Convenient Online Chat for student assistance
•   Certificate programs available
•   Rapid grading turnaround time
•   Unparalleled value