Full course description
At university you are asked to critique literature in your subject, for this you are required to analyse and evaluate, not just summarise. A summary merely reports what the text said; that is, it answers only the question, “What did the author say?” A critique, on the other hand, analyses, interprets, and evaluates the text, answering the questions how? why? and how well?
On this course you will learn how to analyse texts effectively (what is the author’s main point? What is the author’s purpose? What arguments are used? What evidence is presented? What are the underlying assumptions and biases?). You will also learn how to critically evaluate texts (Is the argument logical? Is there sufficient evidence? Is it reliable? Do the arguments support the main point? Are other conclusions possible?)
You will learn effective reading strategies and how to plan and write in a critical style.
· To read strategically and take effective notes
· To critically evaluate and analyse academic literature
· To successfully incorporate the literature in your writing
· Understanding academic texts
· Linking critical thinking and reading
· Analysing and evaluating academic texts
· Effective reading strategies
· Effective note taking strategies
· Linking your critical reading to writing critically