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The learning strategy of this module requires students to commit to 150 learning hours (including assessment), of which 36 hours of class support and 114 hours of independent and self-directed study. Learning support material will be provided for the module.

24 hours of formal lectures/large group activity
12 hours of tutorials.

Development of subject, skills knowledge and understanding will be supported through lectures, study materials and students self-directed study. Cognitive abilities will be developed through seminars that will include active learning processes, activities and discussions that are applied to the management context. Computer-based workshops will provide the opportunity for the supported development of critical issues in management subject and cognitive learning.

In groups, prepare presentations on a specific management topic. Weighted at 40 % (LO1, 2 and 3)

Then

As individuals, prepare a discussion paper (1500 words) on that specific management topic (from the group presentations). Weighted at 60%. (LO1, 2 and 4)

AIMS
The purpose of this module is to provide a formal introduction to critical thinking processes and skills. It aims to encourage students to develop and exercise higher order thinking abilities and apply them within the context of topics critical to the management of organisations. These ideas and arguments will be communicated effectively.

INDICATIVE CONTENT
Development of critical thinking processes that are applied to evaluate and develop balanced arguments regarding critical issues in management through a range of conceptual frameworks. Issues in management will reflect a broad range of topics across the business and management subject area and be adaptive to changes in management thinking and topicality.

Topics covered will be drawn from:
Cognitive process of thinking critically; transferable techniques and concepts to analyse, evaluate and organise information relating to the business and academic context for example, problem solving process, judgement and decision making, influences upon critical thinking, influences on judgement and decision making (personal, political, group, organisational). The construction of and presentation of an argument, information literacy (analysing and researching a topic), communicating ideas verbally and non-verbally will be developed.

Issues in management - these will be evaluated through conceptual frameworks and will include for example: the examination of decisions in organisations (all sectors) and the impact on the environment, community and workplace. Such as, whistle blowing, genetically modified food, media and representation.

This is a hybrid module and as such there is no single text that covers the entire syllabus. It is not necessary to purchase a text to accompany this module. However, students may find the following texts helpful. Additional references will be provided during the course of the module.

Buzan, T., (1997) The Mindmap Book, BBC Books.
De Bono, E., (1996) Teach yourself to think, Penguin.
Kneeland, S., (1999) Effective Problem Solving, How to Books Ltd.
O'Connor, J., (2001) NLP Workbook, Thorsons.
Pirie, D., (1998) How to write critical essays, Routledge,
London.
Thompson, R., (2002) Critical Reasoning; a practical introduction, Routledge.