• develop critical thinking skills

• examine basic assumptions about the world & one's relationship to the world

• understand thinkers who shaped the contemporary world view

• demonstrate the methods of philosophy

• convey the excitement and importance of exploring fundamental ideas

Departmental learning outcomes for this core course also include you the opportunity to:

• appreciate and understand the Western tradition of philosophic thought

• understand basic concepts and arguments in selected areas of philosophy, for example, metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, logic, and aesthetics

• strengthen skills in analysis, reasoning, and problem solving through the reading and discussion of diverse philosophical texts

• effectively communicate the aforementioned and exercise those skills in the composition of accurate, insightful, detailed, and well-organized essays; and/or respond to similar questions appearing on examinations 

Course Format
This course is a hybrid course that blends face-to-face meetings with on-line activities.  Since the number of face-to-face meetings is less than with a traditional class, attendance for the duration of class sessions is particularly important and will be factored into your final grade.  Since on-line activities are asynchronous, you have the advantages of creating your own schedule and working from home or from a computer lab on campus. Course format emphasizes reading, writing and discussing original philosophical texts and key issues in philosophy. Philosophy is challenging. Mastering the readings takes time, patience and diligence. Finally, students are responsible for checking the course site at least two times weekly to obtain information about assignments and deadlines. 

Discussions & Participation
Since the class meets less frequently active attendance and participation when we do meet are important. Participation is required for all assigned on-line activities. Doing philosophy is a dynamic process. Since, learning is seldom static or solitary, you will have the opportunity to converse with peers in thoughtful on-line and in-class discussions. It is strongly recommended that you read and reflect on assigned readings before lecture and before making an on-line posting.

Philosophy requires looking at issues from different perspectives. During the course of the semester, you may find that you disagree with a given philosophical theory or position. Critiquing a philosophical position requires first that you understand it. Since this discovery, or "coming to know" is often preceded by a suspension of judgment, each thinker, then, should be approached with an open mind-a mind free from prejudice.  Always, responses must remain respectful-to others in the class and to the thinkers we are studying.  A lively and productive discussion involves reflection.  Knowledge is not mere opinion or agreement, but rests upon evidence and well-reasoned analysis. For detailed instructions and grading criteria for on-line discussions refer to the document contained in "Course Information."

Writing Assignments
A total of four writing assignments will be assigned. These papers will be prepared outside of class and must be typed, proofed and in standard form. For these writing assignments, you will be asked to submit an electronic version and a hard copy. Detailed instructions on preparing these assignments will be provided.  

Grading Policy
Assignments for this course are designed to strengthen your critical reasoning and writing skills.  It is important to bear in mind that this educational endeavor is a process. With practice and commitment of time and effort, you should be able to anticipate improvement in performance as the course progresses. Class attendance and performance will be a factor in determining students' final grade.  According to the Boise State University Undergraduate Catalog, letter grades are defined as: 

A = Distinguished Work
B = Superior Work
C = Average Work
D = Below Average Work
F = Failure

Deadlines
Assignments to be turned in during face-to-face sessions are due at the beginning of class. Deadlines for discussion forums, writing assignments, and on-line tests should be taken seriously. Students are also responsible for checking the course site at least two times weekly to obtain information about assignments and deadlines. Assignments will not be accepted late and tests cannot be made up without my consent prior to the due date. An email notification a few hours before the assignment is due is not sufficient notice. Syllabus and schedule may be changed as needed at instructor's discretion. Students will be notified of changes by announcements on Blackboard course site in sufficient time to complete assignments.