ROBERT GABRIEL MUGABE SCHOOL OF INTELLIGENCE

(AN ASSOCIATE COLLEGE OF BINDURA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE EDUCATION)

FACULTY OF COMMERCE

PART A.

FULL NAME(S) OF STUDENT: STANLEY MUDZAMIRI

STUDENT ID: B232295B

COURSE CODE: IS 112

DEGREE PROGRAMME: BSc HONOURS IN INTELLIGENCE AND SECURITY

ASSIGNMENT NO 01

ASSESSMENT TITLE: Intellectual standards (10 Marks)

Elements of reasoning (10 Marks)

Intellectual traits (5 Marks)

PART B

Marker’s Comment(s): ……………………………………………………………………………

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Overall Mark:………………………………Marker’s Name:……………………………………..

Date Marked………………………………. Lecturer’s Name:……………..……………………..

With reference to Paul and Elder’s model of critical thinking, write brief notes on the following:

Intellectual standards (10 Marks)

Elements of reasoning (10 Marks)

Intellectual traits (5 Marks)

(A) INTELLECTUAL STANDARDS

Critical thinking is a cognitive process that involves analyzing, evaluating, and

synthesizing information to make informed decisions, solve problem, advancement of
knowledge and the development of well-founded arguments. Intellectual standards are
a set of criteria that guide and evaluate the quality of reasoning in critical thinking. Here
are some short notes on critical thinking focusing on intellectual standards. Intellectual
standards are a set of criteria that guide and evaluate the quality of reasoning. This
essay aims to provide a brief overview of the intellectual standards, highlighting their
significance in fostering critical thinking .

1. Clarity:

Clarity, as an intellectual standard, emphasizes the use of clear, precise, and

unambiguous language and thought. In academic writing, clarity demands the
articulation of ideas in a manner that is easily comprehensible to readers. It involves the
elimination of vagueness, ambiguity, and confusion, ensuring that the writer's intentions
are accurately conveyed. By adhering to the standard of clarity, scholars can facilitate
effective communication and enhance the overall quality of their academic work.

2. Accuracy:

The intellectual standard of accuracy requires scholars to strive for correctness and
reliability in their research, arguments, and reasoning. It necessitates the verification of
facts, utilization of credible sources, and meticulous attention to detail. In an academic
context, accuracy is crucial for establishing the credibility of scholarly work and fostering
a foundation of trust among peers. By upholding the standard of accuracy, researchers
contribute to the advancement of knowledge and maintain the integrity of the academic
community.

3. Precision:

Precision entails being specific, exact, and detailed in both language and thought.
Within academia, precision is vital for conveying complex ideas concisely and avoiding
overgeneralizations. By adhering to this intellectual standard, scholars can enhance the
clarity and effectiveness of their arguments, enabling readers to grasp the nuances and
subtleties of their research. Precision is particularly valuable in disciplines that demand
meticulousness, such as mathematics, engineering, and scientific research.

4. Relevance:

The intellectual standard of relevance necessitates the selection and prioritization of

information that is pertinent to the subject at hand. In academic writing, relevance is
crucial for maintaining focus, coherence, and purpose. Scholars must critically evaluate
the significance of various sources, theories, and arguments, ensuring that they
contribute meaningfully to the research question or topic. By upholding the standard of
relevance, scholars can construct well-structured and cogent academic papers that
engage readers and advance knowledge.

5. Depth:

The intellectual standard of depth encourages scholars to explore ideas, arguments,

and issues in a comprehensive and detailed manner. It requires moving beyond
superficial understanding and delving into the complexities and intricacies of a subject.
In academia, depth is essential for producing rigorous and insightful analyses, enabling
scholars to make original contributions and challenge existing knowledge. By embracing
the standard of depth, researchers can foster intellectual curiosity and promote
scholarly excellence.

6. Breadth:
Breadth emphasizes considering multiple perspectives, viewpoints, and alternative
interpretations. Within academia, breadth is a key intellectual standard that encourages
scholars to avoid narrow-mindedness and embrace intellectual diversity. By engaging
with a range of perspectives, scholars can enrich their understanding, critically evaluate
arguments, and foster interdisciplinary collaborations. The standard of breadth ensures
that academic discourse remains inclusive, robust, and well-rounded.

7. Logic:

The intellectual standard of logic centers on the use of valid and coherent reasoning.
Scholars must critically evaluate the logical consistency of their arguments, ensuring
that conclusions are well-supported by evidence and premises. In academic writing,
logic is essential for constructing persuasive and well-structured arguments, enabling
readers to follow the flow of ideas and draw informed conclusions. By adhering to the
standard of logic, scholars contribute to the rigor and validity of academic discourse.

8. Fairness:

Fairness as an intellectual standard requires scholars to approach information and

arguments with objectivity and impartiality. In academia, fairness is crucial for
evaluating diverse perspectives, respecting differing opinions, and fostering a climate of
intellectual integrity. By upholding the standard of fairness, scholars can promote
constructive dialogue, encourage critical engagement, and contribute to a balanced and
inclusive academic environment.

(B) ELEMENTS OF REASONING

The elements of reasoning serve as fundamental components of critical thinking,

providing a structured approach to understanding and applying analytical skills. By
applying these intellectual standards to their thinking, individuals can enhance the
quality of their reasoning, make more informed decisions, and engage in critical and
analytical thought processes. These standards serve as important guidelines for
evaluating and improving the effectiveness of critical thinking skills.
Here are some short notes on critical thinking focusing on the elements of reasoning:

1. Purpose: The element of purpose refers to the specific goal or objective that drives
one's thinking. It involves identifying and clarifying the intended outcome or desired
result of the thinking process. Having a clear purpose helps individuals direct their
efforts and ensure that their thinking aligns with their intended goals.

2. Questions at Issue: Questions at issue are the key inquiries or problems that need to
be addressed in a particular context. They are the central questions or challenges that
guide the thinking process. Identifying and formulating relevant questions at issue is
crucial for conducting research, engaging in critical discussions, and generating
knowledge.

3. Information: Information encompasses the data, facts, evidence, and sources that
are relevant to a particular line of thinking. It involves seeking, gathering, and
evaluating information to support reasoning and decision-making. Effectively using
information is vital for conducting research, constructing arguments, and contributing to
the scholarly discourse.

4. Concepts: Concepts are general ideas, theories, principles, and frameworks that
provide the foundation for thinking and understanding. They are the building blocks of
knowledge and play a vital role in academic disciplines. Understanding and applying
concepts accurately and effectively is essential for conducting research, analyzing data,
and developing coherent arguments.

5. Assumptions: Assumptions are the beliefs, opinions, or presuppositions that underlie

a person's thinking. They are often implicit and influence the interpretation of
information and the formation of conclusions. Recognizing and critically evaluating
assumptions is crucial for avoiding bias, recognizing limitations, and promoting
intellectual rigor.
6. Implications and Consequences: Implications and consequences refer to the logical
outcomes, repercussions, or potential results of a particular line of thinking or course of
action. Considering the implications and consequences is vital for making informed
decisions, evaluating the broader impact of research, and anticipating potential
challenges or benefits.

(C）INTELLECTUAL TRAITS

By incorporating these elements of reasoning into their thinking, individuals can

enhance their critical thinking abilities. The elements provide a structured framework for
systematic and rigorous thinking, enabling individuals to analyze information, evaluate
arguments, and synthesize knowledge effectively. They facilitate a deeper
understanding of complex issues and promote intellectual growth and
development.Critical thinking is a cognitive process that involves actively and skillfully
analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing information to make reasoned judgments and
solve problems.

Intellectual traits are the personal qualities or dispositions that contribute to effective
critical thinking. They shape an individual's approach to reasoning, decision-making,
and problem-solving. Here are some short notes on critical thinking focusing on
intellectual traits:

1. Open-mindedness: Open-mindedness is the willingness to consider and evaluate

ideas, perspectives, and evidence without undue bias or preconceived notions. It
involves being receptive to different viewpoints, being willing to change one's beliefs in
light of new information, and engaging in fair and objective analysis.

2. Intellectual Humility: Intellectual humility is the recognition of one's own limitations,

fallibility, and the understanding that knowledge is an ongoing process of learning and
growth. It involves being open to feedback, admitting when one is wrong, and being
willing to revise one's beliefs in light of new evidence or reasoning.

3. Intellectual Courage: Intellectual courage is the willingness to confront and challenge

ideas, assumptions, and beliefs, even when they are unpopular or controversial. It
involves taking intellectual risks, being willing to question authority, and advocating for
what one believes to be true, despite potential opposition or criticism.

4. Intellectual Empathy: Intellectual empathy is the ability to understand and consider

the perspectives, experiences, and emotions of others in the process of critical thinking.
It involves actively listening to and valuing diverse viewpoints, seeking to understand
the underlying reasons and motivations behind different perspectives, and engaging in
constructive dialogue.

5. Intellectual Integrity: Intellectual integrity is the commitment to intellectual honesty,

consistency, and rigor in one's thinking and actions. It involves maintaining high ethical
standards in the pursuit of knowledge, being truthful in the presentation of information,
and avoiding fallacious reasoning or deceitful tactics.

6. Intellectual Perseverance: Intellectual perseverance is the dedication and persistence

in the face of intellectual challenges and difficulties. It involves the willingness to
engage in sustained effort, to overcome obstacles, and to continue seeking solutions
even when faced with setbacks or obstacles.

7. Intellectual Autonomy: Intellectual autonomy is the capacity to think independently,

critically evaluate information, and make reasoned judgments based on one's own
analysis and understanding. It involves being self-directed in the pursuit of knowledge,
avoiding undue influence or reliance on others' opinions, and taking responsibility for
one's own thinking.

Cultivating and embodying these intellectual traits can enhance one's ability to engage
in effective critical thinking. They foster intellectual growth, promote intellectual
integrity, and contribute to the development of well-rounded and thoughtful individuals

1) Paul-Elder Critical Thinking Framework - University of Louisville.

https://louisville.edu/ideastoaction/about/criticalthinking/framework/.

(2) Critical Thinking: Intellectual Standards essential to Reasoning Well ....

https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1067273.pdf.

(3) Paul & Elder Critical Thinking Framework - @lantis Communication.

https://atlantisschoolofcommunication.org/information-management/decision-making/paul-elder-
critical-thinking-framework/.

(4) Wheel of Reason - critical thinking. https://community.criticalthinking.org/wheelOfReason.php.

(5) Critical Thinking: Competency Standards Essential to the ... - ed.

https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ998804.pdf.