University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 1.00 pm Mon, 1.00 pm Tue, 1.00 pm Thu

The aim of this module is to trace some of the major intellectual and societal threads in the development of modern civilisation: the 'canon' of modern thought. The module is in three sections. Part 1 is 'Arguments and Facts' and explores the fundamentals of logic, analysis and reasoning. Part 2, 'Rhetoric, Debate and Understanding' will explore how argument can be used to cajole, convert, persuade and entertain and emphasise the importance in understanding another person's position. Part 3, 'Applying Analysis' takes the learning and skills of the previous sections and applies them to some of the great texts and artworks of western civilisation.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 to 3 lectures and 1 tutorial.

Scheduled learning hours: 40

Guided independent study hours: 160

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination (4 questions) = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr C G M Paxton
Module teaching staff: Dr Charles Paxton, Team taught