PHIL 115

I. Course Title: Wicked Problems (GE)

II. Course Number: PHIL 115

III. Credit Hours: 3 credits

IV. Prerequisites: None

V. Course Description: 

This course will explore “wicked” problems—unstructured, multidisciplinary, wide-reaching issues, such as climate change or persistent injustice, that require critical and creative thinking to develop multiple interconnected solutions. Using research, case studies, discussion, innovation, experimentation, and teamwork, we will learn key skills for defining, unpacking, and proposing solutions for major social and environmental problems, and will apply our skills locally on a service project. This course uses an experiential education approach that requires our best thinking and collective action. 

Note(s): General Education and Humanistic or Artistic Expression designated course.

VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:

This course will explore “wicked” problems—unstructured, multidisciplinary, wide-reaching issues, such as climate change or persistent injustice, that require critical and creative thinking to develop multiple interconnected solutions.  Using research, case studies, discussion, innovation, experimentation, and teamwork, we will learn key skills for defining, unpacking, and proposing solutions for major social and environmental problems, and will apply our skills locally on a service project. This course uses an experiential education approach that requires our best thinking and collective action. 

VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:

Among the learning activities students can expect, but are not limited to, the following:

• Lecture and discussion led by the instructor
• Small group discussion
• Formal or informal debates
• Individual and group oral presentations
• Informal and formal writing assignments
• Journals
• Individual and collaborative research activities involving library and Internet searches
• Written and oral analysis of cases and/or texts
• Written summaries/evaluations of out-of-class events
• Guest lecturers/presenters
• Field trips, ethnography, volunteer work

VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:

Successful students will be able to: 

• Describe complex problems and possible approaches in the context of multiple social or ecological systems  
• Evaluate research and arguments about causes and solutions to wicked problems, demonstrating information literacy through the ability to access, understand, apply, and evaluate sources of information critically and to distinguish fact from fiction  
• Communicate clearly in writing and speaking about causes and solutions to wicked problems  
• Work on a team effectively to posit and apply solutions to complex problems  

VIII. Assessment Measures:

A variety of assessment tools will be used.  Sample assessments may include:  short synthesis papers, exams, presentations, policy proposals, an e-portfolio, or a research paper. 

Other Course Information

Readings will vary by section/faculty member, but may include resources such as:  Exploring Wicked Problems:  What they are and Why they are Important (Bentley and Toth, 2020), along with various journal and journalistic articles and government reports about specific wicked problems. 

Review and Approval

March 01, 2021