The philosophy of thought

Abstract

The principal aim of this project was to construct an online ‘Interactive Learning Environment’ to facilitate first-year philosophy students’ active and collaborative learning of philosophical logic, to accompany a module on the topic (Philosophy of Thought). It was envisaged that the ILE would comprise a network of web pages, of the following kinds:

(i) Online versions of the module handouts, enhanced with hyperlinks to other parts of the ILE and to external www resources.
(ii) Exercises, games and other activities designed both to stimulate interest in the subject-matter of philosophical logic, and to encourage informal practice of its methods. (iii) Discussion forums, for online collaboration on various exercises and topics arising in the module.
(iv) An annotated reading list with hyperlinks to www and online Birmingham IS resources where the reading is available free.
(v) An ergonomic glossary of technical terms commonly used in philosophical logic.

Two further objectives were included in the original proposal. First, that the system would foster students’ general familiarity and competence with IT learning and research resources. And second, that the project leader would improve IT and pedagogical skills.