Question
DATE: INSTRUCTIONS: Answer QUESTIONONE and any other TWO QUESTIONS QUESTION ONE (30 MARKS)(COMPULSORY) a) Explain the following in detail: (10 marks) i.Reason assessment component ii. Critical attitude or spirit component b) What is the meaning of FRISCO? (10 marks) c) Elaborate critical thinking account as critical inquiry (10 marks) QUESTION TWO (20 MARKS) Discuss Havey Siegel's perspective regarding critical thinking and science education QUESTION THREE (20 MARKS) Discuss Paul Feyerabend notion of "farewell to reason" QUESTION FOUR (20 MARKS) "Historically science has been seen as apex of critical thinking influenced by philosophy." Using examples of key philosophers of science substantiate this claim QUESTION FIVE (20 MARKS) Basing yourself on Harvey Siegel, demonstrate the relevance of critical thinking either in democracy or religion or education TIME:
Solution
4.2
(288 Votes)
Layla
Veteran ยท Tutor for 11 years
Answer
**QUESTION ONE (30 MARKS)****(a) Explain the following in detail:****(i) Reason assessment component (10 marks)**The reason assessment component of critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate the reasons given in support of a claim or conclusion. It involves analyzing the evidence presented, identifying any logical fallacies, and judging the overall strength and relevance of the reasoning. This component requires skills like distinguishing between facts and opinions, recognizing biases, and assessing the credibility of sources. Essentially, it's about determining whether the reasons provided *actually* justify the claim being made.**(ii) Critical attitude or spirit component (10 marks)**The critical attitude or spirit component refers to the disposition or inclination to approach information with a questioning mind, a healthy skepticism, and a willingness to consider alternative perspectives. It's not about being cynical or negative, but rather about being open-minded, intellectually honest, and committed to the pursuit of truth. This component involves traits like intellectual humility (recognizing the limits of one's own knowledge), intellectual courage (willingness to consider unpopular or challenging ideas), intellectual empathy (understanding and appreciating different viewpoints), intellectual integrity (holding oneself to the same intellectual standards as others), intellectual perseverance (willingness to put in the effort required for critical thinking), and fairmindedness (treating all viewpoints fairly).**(b) What is the meaning of FRISCO? (10 marks)**FRISCO is an acronym representing six core critical thinking skills: **F**ocus, **R**eason, **I**nference, **S**ituation, **C**larity, and **O**verview. These skills work together to facilitate effective critical thinking.**(c) Elaborate critical thinking account as critical inquiry (10 marks)**Critical thinking as critical inquiry emphasizes the active and ongoing process of questioning, investigating, and exploring a topic or issue. It's not just about evaluating existing arguments, but also about formulating new questions, seeking out relevant information, and constructing well-reasoned judgments. Critical inquiry involves a cycle of questioning, researching, analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating, often leading to further questions and deeper understanding. It's a dynamic and iterative process, not a static one.**QUESTION FIVE (20 MARKS)****Demonstrate the relevance of critical thinking in education, based on Harvey Siegel.**Harvey Siegel strongly advocates for the crucial role of critical thinking in education. He argues that education should aim to cultivate students' ability to think critically, not just transmit information. This is relevant because:* **Empowered Learners:** Critical thinking equips students to evaluate information critically, rather than passively absorbing it. They learn to discern biases, identify flawed reasoning, and construct their own informed judgments. This empowers them to become lifelong learners who can adapt to a rapidly changing world.* **Responsible Citizens:** In a democracy, informed and engaged citizens are essential. Critical thinking skills enable individuals to analyze political rhetoric, evaluate policy proposals, and make reasoned decisions about their civic responsibilities.* **Problem Solvers:** Critical thinking provides the tools for effective problem-solving. Students learn to identify the root causes of problems, consider multiple solutions, and evaluate the potential consequences of different courses of action.* **Promoting Rationality:** Siegel emphasizes the importance of rationality and argues that education should promote the development of rational minds. Critical thinking is essential for cultivating rationality, as it encourages individuals to base their beliefs and actions on evidence and reason, rather than emotion or prejudice.* **Defense against Manipulation:** In an age of misinformation and propaganda, critical thinking skills are crucial for protecting individuals from manipulation. Students learn to recognize deceptive tactics and evaluate the credibility of information sources.Siegel's perspective highlights that critical thinking is not just a set of skills, but a vital disposition for navigating the complexities of modern life and contributing meaningfully to society. Therefore, fostering critical thinking should be a central aim of education.