Module 1 - Orientation

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In this module you will be oriented to the requirements for the Collegiate-Level Reasoning and Problem Solving Skills domain.

The goal of the College Level Reasoning and Problem Solving Skills domain (CLRPS) is to lead students to a systematic examination of an open ended issue or problem that takes them beyond an unexamined point of view.  As students explore aspects of critical thinking, they find themselves consciously monitoring their thinking in order to improve the way they think. As they become more self aware thinkers, they learn to balance a healthy skepticism with an intellectual humility that discourages premature closure on issues they seek to understand.

Learning to become an effective and fair critical thinker prepares students for responsible participation as professionals and citizens, as well as in their personal lives.  To realize the goal of CLRPS, students must practice conscious, systematic problem solving beyond the performance tasks which introduce them to the standards and elements of critical thinking.  Think of CLRPS as a starting point for more effective living.

Activity 1: Domain of Study

Each domain of study is broken down into sub-domains and competencies.

Within the Collegiate-Level Reasoning and Problem Solving Skills domain there are five (5) competencies.

Domain 104 — Collegiate-Level Reasoning & Problem Solving Skills (CLRPSS)

Subdomain 104.1 — Reasoning & Problem Solving

Competency 104.1.1:  Problem Identification and Clarification

The graduate recognizes open-ended problems for which there is more than one reasonable solution and considers reasons for opposing perspectives relating to the problem.
 
Competency 104.1.2:  Planning and Information Gathering

The graduate gathers multiple types of information representing differing perspectives on a single problem and uses them to consider a variety of possible solutions to the problem.

Competency 104.1.3:  Assumptions and Values

The graduate recognizes value-based assumptions and biases in writing and evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of those biases.

Competency 104.1.4:  Interpretation and Analysis of Information/Data

The graduate organizes information to clearly explore the complexities of the problem and potential solutions then carefully analyzes the evidence for various positions

Competency 104.1.5:  Reaching Well-Founded Conclusions
The graduate logically links information to form a thoughtful solution to a problem and effectively communicates the results.

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