Course Description: Cooperative argumentation operates from the assumption that not only are disagreements inevitable in an increasingly interdependent world, but that disagreements are often beneficial even necessary to the process of decision making. Thus, the problem that a class on cooperative argumentation addresses is not the existence of disagreements, rather it is the means by which we address and attempt to resolve our disagreements. Too frequently in this country, we treat disagreements as battles to be won or lost. The theory and practice of cooperative argumentation, by contrast, focuses on the development of argument as a community-centered means to make the best decisions possible based on empathic understanding, sound reasoning and relevant evidence.
Course Narrative: This course was something new and interesting since it required critical thinking when we were assigned assignments. Most of the assignments truly made me think about the issue or topic of the assignment to make sure I understood the purpose of it, while also getting something out of it. The books used in the class were very useful to help me learn about how to become a social entrepreneur and many other important factors. Not only did we complete assignments related to the books, but we also completed assignments that helped me really think about myself and who I am. It was the first time I've had to complete these types of assignments that made me reflect on myself, who I am and who I want to be. The course mainly focused on implementing different ways to resolve our disagreements through cooperative argumentation. We focused on learning and understanding how the theory and practice of cooperative argumentation work to make the best decision based on empathic understanding, reasoning and reliable evidence.