PLO 1: Reasoning

Engage and show proficiency and competency in various types of reasoning practices that result in both internal and external reflection. These reasoning practices should include: Critical thinking, Analysis, Quantitative, Qualitative, Abstract reasoning, Computational, Processes, Assessment, Evaluation

Artifact 1a. meets the PLO 1 criteria. It is an argumentative essay from Philosophy 3006 titled Zhuangzi’s Argument. This essay demonstrates various types of reasoning and reflective practices such as critical thinking, analysis, abstract reasoning, and assessment, and evaluation. The essay presents a logical argument that contains premises and a conclusion which are supported with evidence and reasoning. It also presents objections of the premises and evaluates those sections in a balanced manner, taking into consideration both the supporting and opposing viewpoints of the essay’s controversial concept. Similarly, the essay also requires abstract reasoning to fadom the concept of death, which is unknown to humanity, and evaluate diverse perspectives of its nature throughout society. It assesses previous perspectives influenced by experiences, culture, and speculations and collects objective and subjective information to create a viable argument. Overall, this artifact demonstrates a thoughtful and analytical approach to a complex topic displaying a vast amount of critical thinking skills.

Artifact 1b. meets the PLO1 criteria and demonstrates reasoning through qualitative, quantitative, computational, and processes practices. It is a Physics 3050 Lab assignment titled Classification System (Galaxies). This qualitative aspect of this lab assignment required analyzing, comparing, and organizing the various categories/classifications of galaxies and their descriptions such as their shape, color, and characteristics. Additionally, the beginning of it required students to come up with their own descriptions and classifications which add to this aspect. The quantitative aspect is seen in the process of analyzing the brightness, fogginess, and the presence of spirals, dust, or gas. The computational aspect is demonstrated in the process of utilizing the word to record data and fill out the document and using the Space telescope website to properly analyze, compare, and classify the galaxies. Finally, the process aspect of this assignment required multiple steps with a specific process needed to complete the scientific process which required critical thinking, recording, observing, and testing the data collection provided. Overall, this artifact demonstrates a thorough process of data collection and analysis.

While setting up this PLO, I had to think about the meanings of each criterion. For those that seemed a bit complicated, I had to do more research. This made it easier to identify an assignment that would have some or all of the criteria needed. I noticed that each of these assignments required that I use many strategies and skills to complete. I was not aware that I had those abilities, but it makes sense since the assignments were a challenge. Now that I have done this PLO, I can look into other artifacts and make those same connections. I can also use this idea and apply it when I am an educator and make lessons in which I want to incorporate many practices and skills in one single assignment.