Critical thinking and argumentation

Course description

Scientific research is based around logical reasoning and argumentation. Using existing knowledge and results one combines them in a logical way to lead to the answer to your research question and consequently your contribution to a better world. While this sounds straightforward, argumentation of itself is complex and multi-facetted. And writing argumentation down and telling it to your supervisor, your promotor or your grandmother are two different stories altogether. During this training we focus on the construction of argumentative frameworks in science and how different models can be used. Apart from applying these principles in writing, during the second part of the day we work on delivery in different forms, including and excluding media. Learning what the elements of a comprehensive presentation are and how you can compose the best-fitting format.

The set-up of the course is to give a solid theoretical basis with complementary practices to apply that theory. Additionally it gives the participants insights in their personal strengths and preferences as well as assets that still need some work. This leads to not only a steep learning curve during the course but also afterwards. The combination of applying argumentation in both the written and the spoken word caters a wide variety of possibilities to apply in different stages of the PhD trajectory.

After the course the participants will receive a reference document to extend their knowledge on argumentation models and the application of it in writing a proposal, research or the defense. 

Learning outcomes

• Being able to make an elaborate, scientific argument
• Being able to hold a structured, convincing, and well-founded argument
• Being able to use shorter, clearer and more appealing formulation
• Being able to summarize and analyse an argument as well as rebut it
• Being able to hold a convincing speech with good integration of arguments
• Being able to ask and answer questions as a means to strengthen your own case

General Information

Target Group:	PhD's
Group size:	12
Course duration:	1 day
Language:	English
Credit points:	0,3 ECTS
Self-study hours:
Name lecturer:	Lara Minnaard
Venue:	See course schedule

Fee

Reduced fee: • PhD candidates of Wageningen University with an approved Training and Supervision Plan (TSP) who are registered at one of the WU graduate schools (EPS, PE&RC, VLAG, WASS, WIAS, WIMEK) • Postdocs of Wageningen University who are registered at one of the WU graduate schools	€45
University fee: All other PhD candidates / Wageningen University postdocs and staff	€90
External fee: All other participants	€180

Fee includes study and training material, coffee/tea and lunches.

Cancellation condition

You may cancel free of charge up to 1 month before the start of the course. After this date you will be charged the University fee (€ 90). Unless:

• You can find someone to replace you in the course and supply the course coordinator with the name and contact information of your replacement.
  In this case you will only be charged a € 50,- cancellation fee.
• You (PhDs and postdocs of Wageningen University) have a valid reason to cancel (illness or death in the family 1st or 2nd degree).
  In this case you will be charged the reduced fee and your supervisor/PI must send a mail indicating the reason for cancellation.

Note: If you would like to cancel your registration, ALWAYS inform us. Someone else may still be able to take your spot.

Information

For more information please contact : wgscourses@wur.nl