Critical Thinking

Develop your ability to interpret, analyse and evaluate ideas and arguments.

Course Director: Laura Miller-Bridgland

Head of Divinity, Eton College
View Study Options

Course overview

During the Critical Thinking Course you will analyse different scenarios and complete interactive activities which will help you put theoretical knowledge into practice. By the end of the course you will be able to have more confidence in your arguments and be able to spot fallacies in other’s.

Syllabus

1

Types of Arguments

  • Argument in the context of critical thinking
  • The link between reason and truth
  • Using different types of reasoning

2

Identifying Bad Arguments

  • Good and bad ways of reasoning
  • Fallacies – slippery slope, ad hominem, post hoc and false dilemma
  • Hidden assumptions

3

Evaluating Evidence

  • Different types of evidence
  • Assessing evidence
  • Trusting your senses

4

Evaluating Data

  • Questioning data and statistics
  • Presentation of data in graphs
  • Assessing proof

5

Emotion and Bias

  • The effect of emotions on judgement
  • Identifying biases and prejudices in thinking

6

Applying Critical Thinking

  • Arguments in different contexts and formats

Critical Thinking – learning outcomes

 

By the end of the course you will be able to:

  • use logic to analyse an argument
  • identify bad arguments and faulty reasoning
  • assess the evidence used to support an argument
  • evaluate the data and statistics used as evidence to support an argument
  • identify if emotions have influenced an argument
  • recognise bias and prejudice in thinking.

Study options

Individual Course

Self-paced, independent learning that students complete at their own pace.

This is a flexible option which students can fit around school and other extracurricular commitments.

See how it works >

  • 7–10 hours of learning materials
  • Diagnostic test to measure skill level
  • Progress dashboard
  • Certificate of completion

Important information

Safeguarding

As part of our rigorous safeguarding procedures, all EtonX staff have passed an enhanced DBS check and child safeguarding course.

Privacy and data

We take every step to ensure the security of your personal data. For information on how we collect and use your data, see our Privacy Policy.

The Critical Thinking Course has undoubtedly changed the way I view things in a beneficial way. I am now able to consider alternative views culminating in me being able to make my own decisions based on my own thoughts.
Aleena, Critical Thinking Student

Free access for state schools

If you’re a state school student in the UK aged 13 or over, you get free access to all of our courses. No catch. Start building your skills today!

Not in the State Sector?

Don't worry - you can still purchase a 12 month subscription! Individual and bulk school licence purchases are available.