First, let me say that I definitely have a love hate relationship with this class as I am progressing through it. I won’t give too much away out of respect for the class. What I will do is address what you can already see when you click on the readings etc. I find the information absolutely fascinating. This is a close second to being my favorite class just based on the content. That said, there are some things that I note that make this class more challenging (and maybe even difficult for some) unnecessarily so. It’s a college class. It’s meant to challenge. I understand that. Just hear me out.
First, the lectures from Dr Feedes are great. I find these most engaging out of all that I’ve attended with him (largely because I find this content interesting). Though his presentations do build on the lessons, it’s my assessment that maybe there needs to be a Logical and Critical Thinking 1 & 2. It definitely feels like two different classes in 1. It makes sense but it still feels that way. LCT1 could focus more on the lectures and act as a prerequisite, and LCT2 could focus more on putting things into practice.
The crux of this class is the practice work. I won’t give away what’s on quizzes in specifics but it does require your putting into practice what you’ve read. Here is where I feel the disconnect is. The readings are short overviews that build upon the concepts. Let me reemphasize SHORT. You know there’s a textbook being used, it’s even noted in the reading that there are supposed to be examples below. We don’t get the benefit of those examples. 🫣😵💫🤯
Example: You start with identifying statements and arguments. You learn in the readings that there are even precursor words that identify an upcoming premise or conclusion. You’re given some examples to help you understand what you read.
So far so good right? I think so too. As the concepts build on each other you’re given a little more detail in a chain like format. But when you get into the more detailed aspect of identifying arguments and explanations the info is good but the quizzes throw you into an entirely new world. There are some things you’re just not that prepared for when identifiers you learned about aren’t there or a sentence is more complex or simple.
I believe that there is more needed such as a lecture (I can’t believe I’m suggesting more videos) or at least more practice exercises in the writings so that one can be sure they understand what’s been stated and how to put it into practice BEFORE being thrown into a quiz that’s going to offer some unique differences than in the reading. Even practice quizzes for no points would be great so you can see where you need more understanding. I feel we are very short changed when it comes to some pretty important exercises that are critical for our understanding as they reshape the way we think, write, communicate, etc. Like I said, it’s great stuff. I just feel shortchanged when it comes to readings and quizzes.
I don’t want to be all doom and gloom here. I’m still encouraged. I’ve had to resort to putting this one off for a bit because it will require that I watch some outside sources (like YouTube) to really teach these concepts in more detail using a variety of examples that walk you through it when concepts taught are not so obvious. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I almost wish I had taken math. Say it ain’t so. This is in a sense like math as it builds on concepts. Dr. Feedes was definitely on it with the first unit on THINK SLOW! The concepts move a little fast, so you’ll definitely need to be sure you’ve put these things in practice before you take the quizzes.
With all that said, I’m going to put this class on the back burner for a bit to focus on finishing other classes (I’m so close to being done with all of the required courses for the BA of Divinity). I’ll come back and tell you how I made out. Please pray for me. I’ve made all As. I’m magna cum laude, and I don’t want to lose that. I’m a little obsessive, I admit it. I’m determined to get an A in this class. I just don’t want to hinder my progress right now.
If you’re in this class, God speed! Lol. If you’re thinking about taking it, it’s got great content! Just be prepared to find some ways to practice the concepts before you hit “take quiz.” I’ve only gotten through units 1 & 2 and it’s shown me that this needs undivided attention. This is not one you take alongside other classes (at least not for me).
Nevertheless, we can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens us!!!!! I pray to come back and say, “I got an A!”