SHORT ADVANCED PROGRAMME
Critical Thinking
23 June 2023
Decision-making is something we do every day. Sometimes these decisions don’t seem to have a big impact on our future (what should be my next meal? What dress should I wear to a party?), but most of our decisions carry a tremendous impact on our lives (what course should I take? Where should I work? Should I have children? Should I support this law? What should be my stance on this issue?)
Having such importance in our professional and daily lives, we want that our decisions are rational and based on solid evidence.
Critical thinking is the analysis of available facts, evidence, observations, and arguments to form a judgment. It is the art of making a judgment through the use of rational, sceptical, unbiased, and scientific thinking when analysing or evaluating factual evidence.
Employers value employees who possess these skills, as they contribute to the growth and success of the company.
The RUN-EU Short Advanced Programme (SAP) ‘Critical Thinking’ will enable students to analyse information objectively, identify problems and find effective solutions, improve communication skills, and think creatively.
This SAP is jointly coordinated by the Polytechnic of Leiria (IPLeiria), the NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences (NHL Stenden), and the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS).
Date
From 26 September to 26 October 2023
Face-to-face week
From 16 to 20 October at the Polytechnic of Leiria (Portugal)
Mode of delivery
Blended
Language of instruction
English
ECTS Credits
3
Academic recognition
To be defined by each home higher education institution.
Generally, most students will have this SAP certified in their diploma supplement, as a minimal condition.
Eligible participants
RUN-EU students from any study cycle.
Learning outcomes
At the end of this Short Advanced Programme, students will be able to:
- Self-Reflection: reflect on one’s thinking, assumptions, and biases, recognising areas of strength and weakness and continuously improving one’s critical thinking skills.
- Evaluating Arguments: assess the strengths and weaknesses of different arguments, identifying flaws and inconsistencies, and determining the most persuasive and reasonable conclusions.
- Communication: articulate and express ideas and arguments clearly and persuasively, both orally and in writing, using appropriate evidence and reasoning.
- Problem-Solving: identify, analyse, and solve complex problems by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable components and applying critical thinking skills to develop innovative and effective solutions.
- Creative Thinking: generate new and original ideas by combining existing knowledge and insights, thinking outside the box, and challenging assumptions.
- Decision-Making: apply critical thinking skills to make well-informed decisions by evaluating available options, considering potential consequences, and selecting the most appropriate course of action based on sound reasoning and evidence.
How to apply
Fill in the application form
Deadline for applications
8 July 2023
Selection criteria
Maximum number of students to be selected: 35
Extensive motivation (why would you like to take the course, how will you apply for the course, what will you bring as a student).
A wide representation of fields of study.
Balanced participation of RUN-EU member institutions.
Coordination
IPLeiria, Portugal
NHL Stenden, The Netherlands
TUS, Ireland
Contact filipe.santos@ipleiria.pt if you have any further questions.