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Digital thinking tools for better decision making
Digital thinking tools for better decision making

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Session 6: Digital argument mapping

Introduction

In Session 4, you learned about argument maps. An argument map, such as Figure 1, allows you to expose the structure of an argument: the patterns that are implicit in that argument. Claims are depicted as boxes with text, and these boxes are connected by lines that represent support and oppose relations.

When preparing to write a reasoned argument, an argument map can help you to organise your thoughts.

An argument map about the claim that ‘Eating carrots improves your eyesight’
Figure 1 An argument map about the claim that ‘Eating carrots improves your eyesight’

The map at the centre of Session 4, shown in Figure 1, was created with FreeMind, a digital tool. This session introduces FreeMind. You will learn how to use it to map arguments that other people have put forward.

Mapping not only helps you organise your own thoughts, it can also help you with understanding arguments put forward by other people. This may, in turn, allow you to better appreciate both the strengths and the weaknesses of their arguments.

By the end of this Session, you will be able to:

  • create an argument map using a digital tool
  • explain how digital argument mapping extends our natural capabilities
  • distinguish between grouped and independent claims.