Norfolk State University

Department of
Interdisciplinary Studies
Syllabus-Online
INT 322: Approaches to Critical
Analysis
Dr. Aprilfaye Manalang, Assistant Professor

Spring
2016
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Contents
Course Summary.....................................................................................................................
Prerequisites............................................................................................................................
Instructional Methods and Strategies......................................................................................
Computer Literacy Requirements...........................................................................................
Learning Objectives.................................................................................................................
Instructional Materials.............................................................................................................
Required Texts...................................................................................................................
NSU Policies.............................................................................................................................
University Assessment Statement....................................................................................
Incomplete Grade Policy...................................................................................................
Statement on Spartan Success Center ...........................................................................
Departmental Policies ............................................................................................................
Late Assignments and Make-up Policy.....................................................................................
Learner Interaction Policy........................................................................................................
Evaluations..............................................................................................................................
Example of a Rubric..........................................................................................................
Written Work Criteria.......................................................................................................
Academic Integrity Standards.........................................................................................
Attendance Policy..................................................................................................................
Assignments..........................................................................................................................
Grade Scale...........................................................................................................................
Course Outline.......................................................................................................................

Course Number & Course Name: INT 322: Approaches to Critical Analysis
Semester: Spring 2016
Class Meets: Online
Instructor Name: Dr. Aprilfaye Manalang
Office location and office hours
Norfolk State University
Bowser Hall Room 101
Office Hours: Tuesdays/Thursdays 11:30 am 12:00 pm; 3:30 pm 6:30
pm; and by Appointment
Cyber Office Hours: Wednesdays 9:00 am 10:00 am
Email address: atmanalang@nsu.edu
Telephone: (757) 823-9489
Preferred method of communication:
Students may best reach me via email or after class. During the week students
should expect an email within 24 hours. On the weekend and during holidays,
students should expect to hear from the professor between 24-48 hours.
Email Policy
NSU email is the only email system to be used for this course; private
email addresses cannot be used. Always title your messages; be sure the
subject line reflects the topic of discussion. Email messages should always
be courteous and follow etiquette protocols. You should be respectful to
those who are receiving your email; never send SPAM to other classmates.
Remember that these documents are never deleted from the system and
nothing is ever private. Also, always check your spelling before sending a
message.

Course Summary
Course Description
Thinking is any mental activity that helps formulate or solve a problem, make
a decision, or fulfill a desire to understand. It is a searching for answers, a
reaching for meaning (Ruggiero, 2007). Therefore, it is the examination of
how characteristic logical constructs are employed in reading, writing, and
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speech acts, modeling and application of modes of analysis that develop

critical thinking skills and flexible orientation towards reading and writing.
What is Interdisciplinary Studies? An area of study that provides students
with a broad background in many disciplines including social sciences,
literature, biology, chemistry, the arts, mathematics and many other subjects.
The field of critical thinking is of necessity to interdisciplinarity because the
human mind is far too complex to understand itself in any one dimensional
way.
Course Rationale

Critical thinking is the cornerstone of higher education as well as the

hallmark of an educated person. Therefore, it is rational to say that the
thinking process is such an integral part of who we are as people. The
prospect of expanding students thinking implies that expanding who
they are as human is basis enough for offering the course.

Introducing students to critical thinking is needed in higher education

because it fosters sophisticated intellectual and language abilities.

This course will allow students to apply their evolving thinking abilities
to a variety of life experiences.

Course Delivery Method

This course will be conducted in person. I will also utilize Blackboard Learning
Management System (LMS) and supplement other online resources.

Prerequisites
INT 308: Introduction to Interdisciplinary Studies (strongly
recommended)

Instructional Methods and Strategies

The primary method of instruction is active and participatory. The teacher
serves as a tool to direct and assist students in owning knowledge that is
useful and purposeful in their academic pursuits. Instructional methods
include online lecturing, discussions, group activities, and assessments.

Computer Literacy Requirements

To successfully complete this course you must possess:

A basic knowledge of computers. For example, understanding files

and folders to upload or download course content is absolutely essential.
Basic computer literacy classes (CSC-150) are available on campus as
elective courses. Students deficient in the necessary computer skills
should consider taking such classes.

An understanding of the Web and its resources, such as the library

and online research tools accessed through a Web browser.

Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, such as Word and

PowerPoint; this is absolutely essential for your academic success.

Familiarity with NSU's e-mail system to guarantee effective

communications with both instructors and classmates. All NSU students
have been assigned an e-mail account and are expected to access it
regularly via the Web.

Knowledge of Blackboard Learning Management System (LMS),

which is mandatory for this course.

For those of you not familiar with the Blackboard LMS, an online orientation
can be accessed by self-registering in Blackboard. The course name is
"Blackboard Student Training." Additional assistance with Blackboard can
be obtained through the Blackboard Central Help Desk at
bbtechsupport@nsu.edu or by phone at 757-823-2328 M - F 8AM - 6PM at the
Lyman Beecher Brooks Library (LBBL), suite 3007.
Addressing your computer skills will greatly enhance your learning experience,
reducing wasted time and frustration for yourself and your instructors. Please
feel free to contact the Office of Information Technology (OIT) Client Services
or the Office of Distance Education for advisement on how to receive
assistance with your computer literacy instructional needs.

Course Goals and Measureable Intended Student Learning

Outcomes
By the end of this course, given a practical scenario or exercise, and with the
use of appropriate research, you will be able to:

Students will be able to think critically and acquire the concept of

reading as a thinking activity.

Students will be able to understand the reciprocal relationship between

thought and language, between the process of thinking and the process
of writing.
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Students will be able to explore and discover ideas, both individually and
in dialogue with others.

Students will be able to exhibit their thoughts and critical thinking

patterns in the form of essays.

Students will be able to solve problems and make the best choices in
their academic, professional, and personal lives.

Students will be able to participate in discussions boards as to develop

interest in certain issues which will further develop their ability to think.

Students will be able to solve problems, analyze issues, recognize

different perspectives, recognize inferences and judgments, and
evaluate and construct arguments in written and oral form.

Instructional Materials
Required Texts
Ruggiero, V. R. (2007). The Art of Thinking: A Guide to Critical and Creative
Thought, (11th Ed.) Pearson and Longman, New York.

NSU Incomplete Grade Policy

To be considered for an Incomplete (I) grade in a course the following must
be met: (1) the student must be passing the course; (2) the student must
have completed at least 70% of all coursework; and (3) the student must
have a legitimate reason for the request. Once these three requirements
are met, it is at the discretion of the professor to approve or disapprove
the students request for an Incomplete grade. Additionally, Incomplete
grades are not merely given, but are requested by students considered by
professors, and are at the sole discretion of the professor, depending on
each individual students situation/circumstance. The length of time to
complete coursework for the removal of the Incomplete grade is no more
than six weeks (due before the midterm period of the following academic
semester). It is the students responsibility to stay abreast of all
requirements, timelines, and due dates. If the student does not comply
with the stipulations set forth to remove the Incomplete grade, the
Incomplete grade will turn into an (F) once the deadline has passed. If
an Incomplete grade request is approved by the professor, the student is
to complete the University Incomplete Grade Request Form.

NSU Assessment Policy

University Assessment Statement
As part of NSUs commitment to provide the environment and resources
needed for success, you may be required to participate in a number of
university-wide assessment activities. These activities may include tests,
surveys, focus groups, interviews, and portfolio reviews. The primary
purpose of these assessment activities are to determine the extent to which
programs and services at NSU are maintaining a high level of quality and
meeting students need. Participating students will not be identified in the
analysis of results. Unless indicated by the instructor, results from University
assessment activities will not be computed in student grades.
Academic Support Services
The Spartan Success Center (SSC) offers services designed to improve student
achievement, increase retention, and reduce time to degree completion.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of tutoring (including
SMARTTHINKING online free tutoring services), advising, mentoring,
Sophomore Year Experience, and Examination of Writing Competency
assistance. https://www/nsu.edu/provost/ssc/

Proctoring Policy
Students must have exams in online courses proctored. A proctored exam is
one that is administered by an impartial individual (called a proctor) who
monitors and supervises a student while that student is taking an exam. The
proctor ensures the security and integrity of the exam process. Students will
be required to submit an Online Course Proctor Identification Approval Form
to each instructor. Once the proctor has been approved by the instructor, the
students will be required to present their Spartan Identification Card and
photo identification to the proctor prior to students receiving the exam.
Students are responsible for arranging a proctor for their exam(s) and all
costs incurred for this service. The University Testing Center in Harrison B.
Wilson Hall, 134, 757-785-3827, offers Proctoring Services on campus, at no
cost for NSU students. Please contact the NSU Testing Center for more
information; students are to pre-arrange their scheduled proctored times
with the NSU Testing Center and the course professor.

Departmental Policies
Late Assignments and Make-up Policy
All grades are final; there will be no make-up quizzes. Please follow the
due dates provided in each unit because we will cover multiple lessons weekly.
Assignments must be submitted on time. No late work is accepted. Plan to
submit early to avoid last minute distractions, emergencies, or technical
glitches.

American Psychological Association Writing Manual

Requirement
ALL Interdisciplinary Studies courses require students to submit all papers,
unless otherwise noted by the professor, using APA 6th edition (October 2010).
The APA Manual is a required text for all courses, and students are to abide by
that writing style. The APA Manual can be purchased from the University
bookstore.

Microsoft Word
ALL Interdisciplinary Studies papers are to be submitted as Microsoft
Word documents (.doc), unless otherwise noted by the professor. If students
submit papers using other writing programs (i.e., WordPerfect, Microsoft
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works, MAC programs, etc.), they may lose points and/or not have their paper
accepted/graded. It is imperative that students follow the guidelines and
directions of each professor.

Assignment Submissions: Course file format standards

When submitting assignments/documents for your Interdisciplinary Studies
courses, submit them in Microsoft Word.doc format and make sure that the
document saved name does NOT include any special characters (i.e., ^%$#@!
*()}[ or anything else similar. DO NOT PLACE your RESPONSES, PAPERS,
or ANSWERS in the Comment box/area in Blackboard. When submitting
assignments, ALL assignments (unless otherwise directed by that course
professor) are to be submitted as Microsoft Word attachments (doc.files) in
Blackboard through the Assignment manager link.

Special Instructions & Policies

Required Software
Minimum requirements include: Windows 7, Word 2007, Outlook 2007, and
internet access. You will also need to sign into the course at MyNSU website
in order to access blackboard.
Blackboard Instructions
All navigational buttons provide you with information on how to work the
system and allow you to proceed with the rest of the course. It is important
that you familiarize yourself with all the navigational buttons and controls
of the Blackboard system.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement

In accordance with Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act and the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, if you have a disability or think
you have a disability, contact the Office of Accessibility Services and
International Student Services (O.A.S.I.S.) for information regarding programs
and services to enhance student success.
Location: Student Services Building, Suite 110D
Telephone: 757-823-2014

Let the professor know immediately of any special requirements, services, etc.
within the first two weeks of the course! It is students responsibilities
to notify Dr. Manalang at the beginning of the course.

Learner Interaction Policy

All students have the potential to earn an A. It is each students
responsibility to assertively and actively participating, and administrating
his/her learning experience. By completing all assignments, participating in all
classroom discussions, projects, assignments, presentations, and reading all
assigned material, in an engaging and meaningful educational manner,
students work to earn an A. Although a large content of the material for this
course is subjective, an objective (or as objective as humanly possible) will be
utilized for grading students.

Related University-Wide and Course Specific Requirements:

The core competencies met in the course will be the following:
Students will practice four of the Commonwealth of Virginias-mandated
competencies by participating in the following:
Critical Thinking requires that students think actively, analyze issues, discuss
ideas in an organized way, and support diverse perspectives with reasons and
evidence.
Writing skills: students will be able to exhibit their thoughts in the form of
essays, following the model of the EWC.
Technological literacy will be assessed when students submit assignments
using the computer and various word-processing software.
Oral Communication will be demonstrated during class participation and in
group discussions and/or discussion boards, blogs or journal entries.

Success Policy
The best policy for success in any course is preparation, organization, and
active participation, reading completion and comprehension, effective time
management and constant, consistent communication with the instructor.
Remember, this is YOUR educationbe responsible and accountable.

Evaluation (Criteria)/Assessment Methods and Grading

Standards
The assessment in this course is done using rubrics; a matrix that uses a
descriptive tool that measures each learning objective in a relatively unbiased
manner. This tool allows the instructor to provide qualitative feedback on
designated competency levels. Rubrics also allow you to see beforehand what
the assessment is all about and study accordingly.
Please refer to the class participation rubric and guide and short paper
rubric for guidelines on how to attain the full points for overall
discussion/participation/short paper grade. You will also be graded regarding
the level of your participation and interaction in the classroom--10% of your
grade will be assigned to the level of interaction you display in the classroom.
This means participating in a weekly discussion, and attending to group
meetings and discussions.
This course will have six different types of assessments totaling 100%:
1. Overall discussion/participation grade given at the end of the semester
= 10%
2. Theory assignment: Research project/short paper 3-5 pages = 20%
3. 4 Lesson quizzes 10% each: 10 questions, worth 1 point each = 40%.
4. Video Project = 10%
5. PowerPoint Presentations on short papers = 10%
6. Final Exam: 25 questions, worth 4 points each = 10%
Example of a Rubric
(Actual rubrics are posted with assignments in Bb)
Criteria

Excellent (50)

Organization
of material

Presentation
of material

Your presentation was

logical and superbly
organized
Your material was
clear and added to the
content
Your material was
clearly presented

Learner

Participates equally

Use of
resources

Very Good (30)

Your work had a clear
introduction, body and
conclusion.
Your material did not
connect to the
content
There were some
ideas that did not
connect
You participate in

Good (20)

Poor (10)

Your presentation was

generally organized,
but lacked some clarity.
Some of your ideas
were inappropriate

The work was poorly

organized or ideas were
presented randomly
Some of your ideas
were incorrect and
inappropriate
The material was
vague and contained
errors
You do not

The material stated

some concepts, but
lacked some clarity.
Your participation is not

10

Points
___/50
___/50
___/50
___/50

Interaction/
Participation
Overall
Quality

with other group

members in
researching, writing,
and editing
Outstanding overall
quality. A powerful and
memorable
presentation.

some sessions
leaving others in
charge of the group
work.
Covered all the main
points and it was
generally well

equivalent to that of
others who are in
charge of the work.

demonstrate
participation and
interaction in class

Could have put more

effort during the
preparation and design
stages to increase the
overall quality.

Generally sloppy. Weak

presentation skills. You
have the ability to do
much better.

Total Points

Written Work Criteria

All written work is expected to reflect an undergraduate, upper-level use
of grammar, spelling, and organization of material. Work with errors of
this nature will be penalized. All presentations must reflect undergraduate,
upper-level ability to offer information in an explicit and persuasive manner.
Academic Integrity Standards
Papers are to be free of plagiarism; if any of your papers is found to be
plagiarized, you will receive a zero on the entire assignment. If the plagiarism
is significant enough, you may fail the entire course and be reported according
to the current edition of the Student Handbook.

Attendance Policy
Based on the Student Handbook:
A. Not more than 20% of class meetings (excused or unexcused) may be
missed by a student
in a given semester.
B. At the discretion of the instructor a student whose absences exceed 20% of
scheduled
class meetings for the semester may receive an F for the course.
C. Class excuses are issued for legitimate reasons by the Office of Student
Services/Judicial
Affairs. Such incidents include:
i. Medical Reasons
ii. Funerals-Immediate family members only
Weather Policy:
In case of inclement weather, students should listen to major radio and
television stations; visit the NSU website at www.nsu.edu; and/or call the
University operator at 757-823-8600. Additionally, students should sign up for
University text alerts. If the University cancels classes, students should check
their NSU email and the Blackboard course site for additional course
information. As an online course, we still meet regardless of weather.
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___/50

___/250

Grade Scale
Student performance and progress will be evaluated on the basis of
homework, class participation, quizzes and test, debate/group performance
(online discussions), papers, and final examination. Extra credit will be
considered, if a student is borderline-failing.
Grading Scale:
A = 94 100
B- = 80 83
D+ = 66-69

A- = 90 93
C+ = 76-79
D = 65-64

B+ = 86 89
C = 75-74
D- = 63-60

B = 84 85
C- = 73-70
F = 0 59

Please note: As part of the INT core/major, students must earn a

grade of C or better in order to gain credit towards graduation and
receipt of B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Course Outline (please note the course outline can change at the

discretion of the professor and/or depending on the progress of the

class. It is the students responsibility to stay abreast of all changes,
amendments, deletions, and additions and to respond accordingly.
The professor will notify students of any such changes.)
Session &
Time

Course Description

Week 1:

Introductions, syllabus review, course terms, policies, assignments,

etc., Purchase textbook, The Art of Thinking by Ruggiero, ed. 11th.
Chapter 1- Develop Your Thinking
Class Introduction- Discussion Board
Complete Pre-Test on Blackboard
Read Chapter 2 Establish a Foundation & Chapter 3-Broaden Your
Perspective
Issues for Extended Analysis: TED Talk
Required reading: Study for Quiz 1 & Read Chapter 4

January 11th

Week 2:
January 18th
(MLK Day on
January 18th,
no class)
Week 3:
January 25th

Online Lecture: Chapter 4: Be A Critical Reader, Listener, and

Viewer
Critically Read and respond to a quote that I will post on Blackboard
Discussion Board.
Assignment DUE: QUIZ 1 to be completed online on
Blackboard by midnight, January 31st.
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Week 4:
February 1st

Create short outlines for your Theory Assignment and Post 3

constructive
comments (in total) on your classmates outlines on the Discussion
Board
Required reading: Read Chapter 5

Week 5
February 8th

Chapter 5- The Creative Process

Characteristics of Creative People
Stages in the Creative Process
I would like you to choose a creative person, either today or
historically, and then
post on Blackboard Discussion Board, their creative characteristics
and outline the
stages in the creative process.
Online Lecture: Theory Paper Assignments
Assignment DUE: QUIZ 2: Due February 28th, by midnight.

Week 6
February 15th
Lesson 7
February 22nd

Chapter 6- Search for Challenges

Importance of Curiosity
Losing Curiosity
Regaining Curiosity
Application Exercise

Week 8
February 29th

Reading Assignment/Identifying Fallacies in Critical Thinking

Discussion Board
Discipline Specific Assignment

Week 9
Spring Break:
March 7-13th

Chapter 7: Express the Problem or Issue

Understanding Images
Activity on Understanding Problems and Issues to be determined by
professor
Assignment DUE: Quiz 3: Due by midnight March 20th.
Chapter 15: Writing and Speaking Effectively
Directions for PowerPoint Presentation information
Class activity on writing and speaking effectively in preparation for
your video presentations on research papers
Online Lecture: Chapter 10: The Role of Criticism
Extended Analysis Activity to be determined by professor
Assignment DUE: Quiz 4: Due by midnight April 3rd.
Chapter 12: Evaluate Your Argument/Issue
Discussion Board
Activity/Assignment on ethics in reasoning
Assignment DUE: PowerPoint Presentations on Research
Papers
Please make sure your PowerPoint presentations on your

March 14th
Week 10
March 21st
Week 11
March 28th
Week 12
April 4th

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Week 13
April 11th

Week 14
April 18th
Week 15
April 25th

research papers are posted. Viewing and Peer Analysis of

PowerPoint presentations on research papers. Post 3 constructive
comments on Blackboard Discussion Board. Due by midnight April
10th.
Online Lecture: Review of Course content
Assignment DUE: Video projects
Viewing and Peer Analysis of Video projects. Post 3 constructive
comments on
Blackboard Discussion Board. Due by midnight, April 17th.
Review of Course Content
Assignment DUE: Theory Paper Due by midnight, April 24th.
Overview of Critical Thinking
Instructions for final exam
Assignment DUE: Final Exam: Due by midnight, May 3rd

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