Course: Philosophic Inquiry
This course explores one big question related to an area of Philosophy. Learners engage in a term long group inquiry into this big question.
Philosophy is the subject that specializes in exploring fundamental questions about the world and our place in it. For example: What is reality? What does it mean for me to ‘know’ something? What is reasoning? What is a Mind? Does God exist? How should I live, and who should decide? Philosophical discussion draws on imaginative speculation, scientific evidence, sustained reflection on lived experience, and the different histories, cultural perspectives, and texts that shape current thought.
The main aim of this course is to explore a 'Big' question that is decided by the student group. Some examples include:
- Does God Exist?
- What does it mean to be human?
- What is reality?
This involves a research-based approach to exploring the various philosophical theories on question and then applying that knowledge to ongoing student-driven discussions. All participants work together to develop collective as well as individual understanding.
Requirements
Philosophy cannot be done ‘solo’. In a philosophy course the participating students become a community with a shared interest in exploring and discussing ‘big’ questions. Anyone wanting to take this course will need to fully participate in ongoing online discussion, whether through social media type platforms or in the video conference. Discussion is a fundamental part of the course.
Assessment
This is a multi-level course in which all students learn together. Students will be assessed at either L2 or L3 depending on what best meets their needs. Two religious studies standards can apply to this course.
90825 Analyse a religious tradition in Aotearoa New Zealand (Internal) (6 Credits)
90827 Analyse the key beliefs of a religious tradition and a secular world view in relation to ultimate questions
About the Teacher
Darren Sudlow has been teaching History, Classical Studies and Philosophy online for the last ten years. He is a member of the NetNZ leadership team and is registered as a teacher with Ashburton College. While not his major, philosophy was a minor focus at University and the Socratic Dialogues a key part of his Classical Studies course over the last few years. He is enjoying offering the first online Philosophy course for secondary age learners in New Zealand. Mr Sudlow has played football since he was eight years old and is a passionate supporter of Ipswich Town Football Club.