RDK Lab - Day 1

Today was the first full day of lab for the RobDeLaKetkar lab. We started in the morning by talking about the basics of argumentation. Students developed arguments to illustrate logic strategies like modus ponens and modus tollens. In small groups, the students developed starting arguments on the camp topic (about the role of labor standards in US trade agreements).

After some "fun in the sun," students then saw a lecture on research skills. Once back in lab, we used some of the research strategies discussed earlier to find resources using JSTOR, LEXIS/NEXIS and Google Scholar search engines. Students realized how easy it is to find potentially useful sources. They now realize "I can't find a good article" is not a valid excuse.

Lab time concluded with the students choosing specific research assignments to tackle in pairs. Pairs will tackle such diverse positions as American exceptionalism, the burden of affluent
countries, cultural imperialism, and the implications of global economic growth.

The evening was spent hearing about the topic in a workshop lecture on the topic wording and a
demonstration debate. After a long day, we all have a lot to think about and an early start to the morning to continue work on the topic.

All said, the lab seems to be off to a great start.