Social Sciences - Critical Thinking in a Media Society 3200-L-NS-MKS
In an era where information spreads rapidly and media influence permeates every aspect of our lives, the ability to think critically becomes essential. This course explores the impact of media on our understanding of reality, the challenges posed by disinformation and manipulation, and the importance of developing critical thinking skills. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, students will learn to:
Analyze Media Content: Understand the structure, purpose, and implications of different media messages.
Identify and Evaluate Sources: Assess the credibility and bias of various sources, including traditional and digital media.
Recognize Manipulation Techniques: Detect and counteract common manipulative language and tactics used in advertising, propaganda, and political communication.
Develop Skepticism: Cultivate a critical mindset that questions assumptions and promotes open-mindedness.
Apply Intellectual Self-Defense Strategies: Use linguistic and logical tools to respond effectively to attacks or misinformation.
The course will also address the role of media literacy in democratic societies, the ethical implications of media use, and the future of critical thinking in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. By the end of the semester, students will be equipped with the skills to navigate the complexities of media society and make informed decisions based on a thorough understanding of the information they encounter.
Type of course
Mode
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Knowledge: The graduate knows and understands
the basic terminology;
the general directions of development and the most important new achievements in the field of critical thinking;
the specificity of the subject;
the basic concepts and principles in the field of the subject.
Ability to analyze media content: Understanding the structure, purpose, and implications of different media messages.
Identify and evaluate sources: Assessing the credibility and bias of various sources, including traditional and digital media.
Recognize manipulation techniques: Detecting and counteracting common manipulative language and tactics used in advertising, propaganda, and political communication.
Develop skepticism: Cultivating a critical mindset that questions assumptions and promotes open-mindedness.
Apply intellectual self-defense strategies: Using linguistic and logical tools to respond effectively to attacks or misinformation.
Understanding the role of media literacy: Awareness of the importance of media literacy in democratic societies.
Ethical use of media: Understanding the ethical implications of media use and its impact on society.
Preparation for future challenges: Readiness to adapt to the changing media landscape and develop critical thinking skills in the digital age.
Assessment criteria
Two (2) absences are allowed per semester for 30-hour courses.
Active participation in classes
Multiple-choice test at the end of the semester."
The condition for obtaining a pass is regular attendance at classes
Practical placement
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Bibliography
Among others
Wasilewska-Kamińska Ewa (2023), Myślenie krytyczne jako cel kształcenia, WUW, Warszawa.
Siegel Harvey (2019), Myślenie krytyczne i indoktrynacja, Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Kazimierza Wielkiego, Bydgoszcz.
Mc Luhan Marshall (1967), Pour comprendre les média, Éditions du Seuil, Paris.
The literature will be provided during the classes.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: