A-to-Z Index

GISAT 160

GISAT 160 offers instruction in problem solving and thinking skills that serve to increase students’ current academic skills as well as their professional skills. There are four main topics we cover in class:

  1. Critical Reasoning / Close Readings—Students study practical critical reasoning skills and methods primarily through the analysis of language in short science and technology articles.
  2. Systems Thinking / Complex Systems—Systems Thinking is the study of the world as a complex system, in which we understand that “everything is connected to everything else.” Complex Systems is the study of the unpredictable results that occur when a variety of simple things interact in complex ways…and their influence on such topics as science, technology, economics, the environment, and virtually every field of human endeavor.
  3. Problem Solving—Students learn fundamental linear and non-linear problem solving strategies in a variety of contexts. Methods include structured problem solving, brainstorming, writing as thinking, reflection, induction / deduction, listening, and non-argumentative conversation skills.
  4. Problem Solving and Technology—Instruction focuses on defining the role of technology in generating and exploring ideas in the context of the problem solving process.

GISAT 160 classes are informal and offer students the opportunity to discuss issues relevant to science and technology.