Developing and Assessing Critical Thinking in Introductory Sociology

Abstract

Introductory sociology courses are well suited to cultivate critical thinking skills, particularly the ability to evaluate evidence, distinguish between fact and opinion, and appreciate multiple points of view. This resource is at once a critical writing assignment and a tool for assessing students’ critical thinking skills and development of a...

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Details

Subject Area(s):

Introduction to Sociology/Social Problems

Class Level(s):

College 100

Class Size(s):

Any

Usage Notes

The exercise works well as a 40-50 minutes in-class writing assignment, and yields optimal value when used at least twice during the semester, once at the beginning and once at or near the end. Both instructor and student are able to observe progress in critical thinking and identify continuing opportunities for deeper development. A key strength of the...

Learning Goals and Assessments

Learning Goal(s):

1. Students will develop and learn to assess critical thinking skills.
2. Students will cultivate their ability to engage in sociological analysis.

Goal Assessment(s):

1. Students read and analyze a contemporary text in a timed, in-class writing exercise that produces a "letter to the editor," and are evaluated based on the AACU Critical Thinking Value Rubric (http://www.aacu.org/value/rubrics/pdf/CriticalThinking.pdf).