STUDENT REVIEWS OF THE ONLINE COURSE

FINAL VIEWS

FINAL ESSAYS on the  Course Itself

CULMINATING EXERCISE

OK, here we are at the end of the semester.  What does Philosophy now mean to you and why?  Is it any good at all for anyone?  What has it meant to others through time?  

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KO

RA

LD

Philosophy no longer means to me what I originally thought-a way of life or a way one lives their life. Now i understand that philosophy is more of a process- a form of a dialectical process, a way of thinking. Philosophy is a pursuit for wisdom, through discussions that resolve confusion, distinguish importance, look for reasons and enriches understanding. It almost seems like a bantering back and forth, which opens up our minds to other thoughts and other ideas.

 Philosophy can be good for everyone. Nobody can ever say they have all the answers, and philosophy can work for everyone in their everyday life. I no longer will just accept the first answer I am told, I will challenge and question and be more aware.

FC

The great virtue of philosophy is that it teaches not what to think, but how to think. It is the study of meaning, of the principles underlying conduct, thought and knowledge.

Philosophy has been very confusing for me. Because it has taken me out of my comfort zone and forced me to question, probe, analyze, all the beliefs I was raised to believe. But now I see how essential philosophy is for everyone, in everyday life. Man, by his nature is a conceptual being, and can not function without some form of philosophy as his guide.

CB

DJ

PG

KL

I agree.  It is enlightening to learn of others' thoughts.I think if one feels comfortable doing so, we should learn about each others beliefs and reasons as to why we believe it.  This class teaches us to back up all of our beliefs with REASON, so now as long as the person does so and does not feel as though they are being attacked, I think it is beneficial for all.  

LG

PG

PG

KL

Well, we have been trying to prove others wrong throughout the whole class.  It's hard to prove we are right though - Like process of elimination-  If this, this and this, are not right, this must be true, which is why I believe it.  Most go with whatever has the least faults.  I agree God is a VERY sensitive subject for some.  The person has to be willing to defend their position.

CC

I now define philosophy as a complete process of thinking by which one comes to a conclusion through reasoning and questioning oneself and others in an attempt to gain truth.  Through this course I have gained the ability to really think about some tough questions and come to some conclusions after thinking, researching, asking questions, listening and reasoning. 

I think philosophy is good for everyone because it is a tool that can be used to come to some conclusions about some fundamental questions that most people simply rely on tradition or history to give the answers to.

LB

JM

KL

EG

Subject: Philosophy

VW

Subject: A constant quest for wisdom

LG

Subject: Philosophy & What It Means

It's amazing how as time passes, we lose the ability to wonder and to see things and to question.  We get so caught up in the rat race, that we do not even take time to think -- and question -- and wonder.  That's what Philosophy means to me.  Philosophy is taking the time to think, really think, about something.  It is to ponder and evaluate and turn this way and that way to think about it from all angles. It is the dialectical process. It is the journey of trying to understand and gain wisdom.  That is what Philosophy means to me now. 

Is it any good?  You bet it is.  If we take just a small amount of these skills and apply them to our personal life and to how we understand and interact with the society around us we will all be far more aware, creative and wise than we were before we started this class. 

CC

LB

CF

Subject: Philosophy could be very practical

before i took this class, whenever i heard the word Philosophy, somehow a mental picture of two men sitting arround the fireplace discussing the meaning of life. Unfortunately, that is the type of mental picture most people have of the discipline. After taking the class, i realized how pratical philosophical way of thinking are to our daily lives.

LB

Subject: Rational answers ... rational thinking

LE

HH

EW

Subject: philosophy

BP

Before this course, I thought that philosophy was a way of life, something that people live by. But now I know that philosophy is a way of thinking and analyzing and that there can be no definite answer to our questions. I think that philosophy is important for everyone. People should question each other and their own beliefs, as all of us have done in this course. 

LD

Subject: unanswered questions...still

The amount of time put into this class is totally necessary to fully get something out of it. It is important to follow through each mode, and stay close to the topics.The labor was well worth it in terms of contributing to the class, because the more you put in, the more you got back. Everytime you answer a post or respond, you are led into the discussion even further and this is when you either continue to question others or you start to question yourself (this I did many times!).

Subject: same feelings..

I also agree that the amount of labor put into this class is well worth the outcome.

I started this class thinking I would learn answers to many questions, like Lisa, about God. I thought I would learn "the truth" about things I have been wondering about. Little did I know, I would be analyze and thinking about what "truth" really means. But learning this process of thinking, is way more beneficial then just providing answers.  I've learned to listen to others points of view and beliefs, use them to challenge my own, which I think its a remarkable quality to have.

And I think I have become even more opened minded from taking this class.

KW

Subject: Unanswered Questions

KO

Subject: Discussion 2

KL

Subject: Learning experienceThis has been quite a learning experience.  We have all taken away from this class new ways of thinking, as well as debating and discussing.  I think we are all better educated in discussing these important topics, now that we know many of the positions people believe.

LG

Subject: Can We Get Better?

First, I have to say that I think part of what made this Class so enjoyable was the fabulous interaction of my fellow students.  You were always there to help, to help guide the way when I, or someone else, was having questions or difficulties. I think this "faceless" class and their many kindnesses are a great part of what made this work so well! 

I also think Professor did a fabulous job of organizing this material, both the textbook and the various links.  The material, although overwhelming at times, was presented in an organized fashion with a logical progression of information. 

The one thing that I think could be improved (and, as a matter of fact, was changed during our course) was the timing allowed for the questions.  I personally found it difficult to read all of the material, and then answer six or seven questions.  I was still within the time span, and people were already forging ahead to the next module.  I think when the questions were broken down into Beginning of Module/End of Module, it worked better for me.  I don't know if perhaps it made it harder for someone else and their schedule? 

I have gained a lot from this class.  I, who has always suffered from jumping to conclusions, have learned to slow down -- and try to think in meaningful successions and steps.  I know this will be an extremely valuable tool and skill for me.   

Thank you all for making this class so enjoyable!  I'm going to miss you, and I certainly will miss all of the different viewpoints and ideas.

LB

Subject: Course Eval

AD

LB

Subject: Up to the task

LE

Subject: evaluation

A little easier reading since there is so much to cover in a short period of time. So, that we can grasp the same that a student who would be taking this course in the longer terms. I think that's what my classmates might have tried to express when previously asked. I know that if there was a denser workload and the reading was a little lighter and more informative that would have helped me. I found myself having to read from page to page and having to go back several times to first try and understand the subject and then later going back and answer questions. After a while you lose your place or train of thought. So that was a little exhausting for me.  

top

Answer each of the questions below and submit

1.Which of the issues covered this semester has been the most important and why so?

2. Which of the issues covered this semester has meant anything to you personally and why so?

3.Why do you think that the issues this course has covered have been issues and have remained issues for so long?

4. Why do you think these issues have been associated with Philosophy and not some other discipline?

5. Why is it that most of these issues have not been so evident as issues in our contemporary culture?  Why are not more people aware of these troublesome questions, issues or problems?

6. Why were not you more aware of these issues than you were at the start of this course?

PH

1.Which of the issues covered this semester has been the most important and why so? 

I enjoyed the module titled "The Greeks and the origins of philosophy."

It was very interesting learning Plato and Socrates' opinions on different topics and to get a peek at how philosophy as a discipline developed. Most of all, it was a pleasure to learn of Socrates strong belief in honor. For many of us it was a first exposure to philosophy. 

2. Which of the issues covered this semester has meant anything to you personally and why so?

The topics of spirits, souls, and the afterlife was of personal interest to me. It was apparent from the class discussions that it intrigued and struck a chord with many classmates as well. In my opinion, one does not need to confuse this topic with the introduction and discussion of religion. It was also of personal interest to me to see the true interest and desire to consider other non traditional views of these topics by my fellow classmates. 

3.Why do you think that the issues this course has covered have been issues and have remained issues for so long?

These issues have remained issues for so long because no one can prove with physical evidence that one view is the absolute correct view that answers all critics questions and satisfies all criteria. One thing that was made obviously clear during this course is that the human animal prefers and demands physical proof and evidence and has a hard time comprehending a topic that is not supported by such evidence.  

4. Why do you think these issues have been associated with Philosophy and not some other discipline?

These issues remain topics of philosophy because they cannot be proven with evidence and hard facts. There is no view that satisfies all critics and therefore is open to debate. Each topic can be viewed differently by seperate individuals because of differing opinions, knowledge, experiences, and talents. So philosophy will remain the discipline for topics such as these.

 5. Why is it that most of these issues have not been so evident as issues in our contemporary culture?  Why are not more people aware of these troublesome questions, issues or problems? 

Our contemporary culture is based on materialism. Most Americans are engulfed in thier lives consisting of money, cars, clothes, houses, jewelry etc. Most are concerned with thier status in society. How they are viewed by others. Most do not concern themselves with the bigger questions that disciplines like philosophy discuss. It is contributing to the breakdown of civilization seen through the destruction of the nuclear family, destruction of organized religions, and  decrease in an attitude of reflection(inner and outer). 

6. Why were not you more aware of these issues than you were at the start of this course?

I was aware of most of these issues at the beginning of the course, but perhaps not as thoroughly read on some compared to others. I do not agree with inflexible restrictions that philosophy, through this course, has placed on creative and comparative thinking. From this course I see philosophy will only give a view creedence if there is physical evidence in support. Because of this inflexibilty it will never be able to explore knowledge through different avenues thus limiting its effectiveness.

  7. Now that you have been educated as to these issues in Philosophy in what way will they have  any consequence in your life? 

They have reinforced my own opinions and beliefs. Never before had I had a need to write my views on these such topics. I find that when I write what I think I can sort through and organize them. Often I answer many of the critics own questions when I am reading complaints from other students. My life will not be altered in any way after taking this course. As I stated in an earlier module, " I know where I have been and know where I am going." And yet I remain available to consider critics and oppossing views. I am appreciative for that opportunity.

RC

1)         I feel each issue this semester has been important to some degree. Each has touched upon very important issues. If I was to narrow it down to one specific I would say reading Plato?s Republic. I feel that set the framework for the course, and I felt it was a wonderful and stimulating piece of literature. 

2)         I think the MIND BODY PROBLEM module was very beneficial to me. I learned many interesting points of view, and had my views challenged as well. Some of my beliefs have changed because of this module, and I thank many of the students for opening my eyes to new beliefs. 

3)         I think these issues have remained so long because they do not have ultimately definitive answers. They have been interpreted by many different people, and have to take into account the beliefs of many people. Some have no answers, nor explanations, and for some, they may never be answered.  

4)         I think these issues are part of philosophy because it involves heavy thinking and questioning. Most other disciplines do not need this much thought, account of consideration, and mental exertion.  

5)         I don?t feel many of these issues are prevalent in today?s culture because many people are like sheep, and refuse to culture. They are contempt and just go with the flow of the times. I feel lack of education and a feeling of being stuck in their ways have caused many people to avoid questioning their own beliefs. 

6)         I feel that I was also comfortable going with the flow, and comfortable with accepting things for what they were or seemed to be.  

FC

            The module on ?philosophy of religion? was the most important to me. Within that module we questioned miracles, the powers or lack of powers of God, his existence, and the presence of evil.  I always believed in miracles and never even thought about what they REALLY were. It turns out miracles are probably nothing, and just a term we use to give us hope. Dealing with thoughts on God, was a little difficult for me.  Only because I ignorantly know nothing about it.  But it was still an important topic for me to cover.  I learned more than I ever knew about God, evil and miracles from this class. 

            I don?t think there is one topic in this class that didn?t mean ?anything? to me. I learned from each of them.  The one module that wasn?t as interesting was the history. But I realize its essential to learn in order to understand the processes in which we are engaging in.  So it?s important to get that background information.  It just wasn?t that appealing to me, I couldn?t wait until that module was over. 

            The reason why the issues we covered have remained issues for so long, is because there can never be any cut and dry answers.  There has always been and always will be different theories, with sufficient evidence to make arguments for and against these ideas.  There is no way to prove them without having any doubt. So therefore this issues go on, as long as there are ideas to support either side.  

            These issues have been associated with philosophy, because philosophy teaches you not what to think, but how to think.  When there are no clear-cut answers, you need the best tools in learning how to arrive at the best answer. Philosophy enables you to do that. It studies the principles, and underlying conduct, that leads you to thought and knowledge.  

            Philosophy is essential for everyone, in everyday life. Man, by his nature is a conceptual being, and can not function without some form of philosophy as his guide.

There is no doubt as a human you need philosophy it is just your choice how to define it. Whether it is, by a conscious, rational, disciplined process of thought and scrupulously logical deliberation. Or by letting your subconscious accumulate a junk heap of unwarranted conclusions, false generalizations, undefined contradictions, or doubts and fears, as your form of philosophy. It is easier for people just to accept what they have been brought up to believe, or what is more acceptable to believe, then question the beliefs that have been with them so long. People don?t want to leave their comfort zone, because they are mainly afraid of the unknown. That is why so many people nowadays are not aware of the troublesome questions, issues or problems, that we have faced in this class.           

CB

            I think that the issue of God has been the most important and meaningful to me.  I had something tragic happen five years ago and since then I have been questioning the existence of God.  It?s not that I have been questioning my faith it?s whether or not He exists and did in-fact create the world. 

            The issues of the course, I think will always remain issues. Everyone has there own opinion on how things have happened and why things happen and that will never change. That is human nature, difference. Nobody is going to have the same exact thought on different issues that occur.  There is no way to definitely prove someone wrong, and until then or maybe not even then, people will think what they want.

            I think the issues we discussed are associated with philosophy mainly because of thought process that comes with philosophy. It is a way of thinking critically, analytically, logically, practically, synthetically, empirically and so on.  It is all the way the mind, or brain, conceives things and makes opinions.

            I think all people may be aware of many but not all the issues and choose to not get involved in the debate.  Many times the debate between opinions leads to arguments and many want to avoid such a thing. But I think that many are unaware because they believe what they are told and don?t really put much thought into things. They are naïve.

            I too, think that I am naïve. I believe what people tell me, to a point. I feel there is no reason to debate over such things. As seen in this class many people were attacked for their beliefs and then became afraid to participate in some of the discussions. Why argue over something that may never be solved?

LD

1.I feel that module 2 was of great importance: The Greeks-Socrates and Plato. Looking back now, I realize the importance of learning this first, we needed to learn and understand about the

dialectical process, which we continued to use throughout the class. We learned to question each

other and resolve confusion. We were able to unmask assumptions, test positions, all while looking for reasons. As said by Professor Pecorino in his text" Philosophy is part of the activity of human growth and thus an integral, essential part of the process of education". I think learning about Plato and Socrates is something all should have the opportunity to do.

     Also, something as simple as being asked "what is Love", something that we take for granted

knowing, brought about many different answers. This was an important discussion, it was one of

the first times in a long time that I have been asked to think about something so simple, and

realized how complex it actually could be. This was also important because it taught us all how to

question and open our minds to others. 

2. I would have to say that the issues pertaining to the philosophy of religion, and the Existence of

God hit home personally. I have already been questioning my faith, and feeling hypocritical for it. I

now know that there is no reason to feel this way. I am not alone. There really is NO proof of a

greater God, so why should I feel as though I need to believe 100%? This would be unreasonable.

My mind has been opened so much when it comes to this subject. I am willing now to seek out

more answers, and do so with the thought that ii may never come to a conclusion, but I will not be

resolved to just accept what I am told, or what I was brought up to believe.

  Also, discussing Miracles was of great interest to me. I have now come to the conclusion that

there are no miracles, and I will not believe so until I were to personally experience one. This is a

subject that is taken too lightly and everything from child birth to the sun rising is NOT a miracle.

My mind has been opened up to so many issues, it is quite refreshing. 

3.I think the issues that have been covered this course have remained issues for so long because

many questions have never been answered in a solid, factual answer. Maybe there is none, and

people need to continue to seek answers. They are issues because they are of great interest to

people, especially on the topic of God. Many people want to believe in something, and will continue seeking and questioning until they come to a conclusion that they are satisfied with. People are not content to settle upon the first answer, which is why we have grown as a universe and have advanced. 

4.I do not see what other discipline or course of study these questions would fit into. Certainly not

math or something that can be calculated or proven. English is more the study of literature, and

writing skills. I have yet to experience any other subject than philosophy that allows one to

question, instead of answer. This is the first course where I am not expected to answer correctly,

but to answer with reason and further questioning. I do not see any other course than philosophy

where this sort of dialogue and questioning would fit in. 

5.These issues have not been so evident as issues of our contemporary culture because people

are too self absorbed now. Everyone is satisfied to get a quick answer (one that they agree upon,

or can easily be swayed) in order to make life easier and move quicker. People of today do not

want to have to take time with thought process, they want the quick fix, easy way out. I think more

people are not aware of these troublesome issues because, again, they are too self absorbed.

Even if these questions were posed to them, they would not want to take the time that is needed to work through them.

6.I was not aware of these issues due to lack of education, lack of exposure to the cultures, and as I said :self absorption. When one stays home, raising children, life can be very hectic. I tended to get through the days and had no time for thought provoking conversations, as a matter of fact when I heard people having what I considered a deep conversation- I walked away thinking "Oh, I have no time for that". Now that I am back in school, I am enjoying the stimulation and the pursuit of "deep conversations". Most of what has been discussed in this class would fall into that category.

Now I will continue to have these discussions with other people. As a matter of fact, I recently had a conversation with a close friend of mine, who was appalled to hear that I am doubting the existence of God, it was quite heated, but invigorating at the same time. We did not come to any conclusion, but she did agree with some reasoning I had. She does not want to doubt her belief, so when it became uncomfortable for her, she stopped the discussion. It felt good to have discussion in this manner-with differences, yet respect. 

7.Now that philosophy has entered my life, I will seek out answers and question more. I will not be as happy to just settle for an answer that someone else gives me. I will be more involved inconversations, with a more open mind. Yet, I will also be more objectionable and pry people for further reasoning. I really believe my life will be fuller for taking this course. Thanks for pushing me and allowing me to reach my potential in this class. I had an awesome experience and will  suggest this class to others. I will also express to them the commitment that is required to do well. Thank you, Professor Pecorino.

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BP 

1. Which of the issues covered this semester has been the most important and why so?

            I think that the issue of the existence of God has been the most important to me. I have always had very strong beliefs in God. I have been taught that what God says is right and that?s how I should live my life. I am now questioning my beliefs, not so much where I would change what I believe in but I will question more now.

2. Which of the issues covered this semester has meant anything to you personally and why so?            The issue of the existence of God. Everyone has so many different beliefs for what is right or wrong, that it has made me think more about this issue. 

3. Why do you think that the issues this course has covered have been issues and have remained issues for so long?

            Every person has a different view of all these issues that we have covered. Everyone has different points of view. They have remained issues because nothing is definite. In philosophy, there is no one right answer.

4. Why do you think these issues have been associated with Philosophy and not some other discipline?

            ?Philosophy is a particular unique type of thought or style of thinking. In science, for example, is quite critical in the evaluation of hypotheses and theories but it lacks the comprehensive nature of philosophic thought. While Religion offers a comprehensive view of all aspects of human life, it is a view which is uncritically formulated and does not itself encourage or tolerate criticism of the fundamental tenets of faith or the principle applications of those basic beliefs to the affairs of everyday life.?

5. Why is it that most of these issues have not been so evident as issues in our contemporary culture? Why are not more people aware of these troublesome questions, issues or problems?

            I know that I really wasn?t aware of some of these issues before this course. I think that people don?t question things that they know or things that they are taught. They just continue on in life without questioning or thinking about these issues because it is just easier to do that. 

6. Why were not you more aware of these issues than you were at the start of this course?

            They were never brought to my attention and I never would have questioned these issues. 

7. Now that you have been educated as to these issues in Philosophy in what way will they have any consequence in your life?

PG 

1. Which of the issues covered this semester has been the most important to you?

          The most important topic this semester was the issue dealing with morals and values.  I hold these things of the utmost importance.  They are important to me because I feel they are important to us as a whole.  I feel that our morals and values are becoming less and less important and with that goes a general respect for each other.  I fear we will soon live in a society that is selfishly based if we keep going in the direction we are going.  It was very important to me to hear other people?s opinions and what their take on the situation is. 

2. Which of the issues covered this semester has meant anything to you personally and why so?

           First the topic dealing with God, that is always very personal.  However the last module that contained questions about how the 9-11 funds should be divided was also very personal.  I come from a very long line of police officers and I myself was at five funerals.  As of now there are fifteen police officers in my immediate family and I thank God that none of them were hurt.  It is so discouraging to see that people actually feel they didn?t deserve the funds because they knew what they were getting into.  To me this is stupidity at its worst.  It is like saying if you die while trying to save your children from a burning house it is your fault because you knew what you were getting into and your children deserve nothing from your insurance.  When asked if any of these people would put their life on the line they said no.  I feel the funds should be distributed based on need and not equally.  People are not equal and should not be treated that way.  It is amazing that some classmates felt the money was to compensate for the actual loss.  If that?s the case I just lost my grandmother, is anyone going to compensate me for my loss? 

3. Why do you think that the issues this course has covered have been issues and have remained issues for so long?

             I think that the main reason is because there is no right or wrong.  When there is no right or wrong you can debate issues for eternity because it relies mainly on a point of view.  Every one has a point of view and many of them are different, hence a never-ending debate over solutions that may never come.  Most of these issues we covered are very personal and we each have our own take on it.  Our parents and environment have differently molded us all and as long as we are all unique we will never come to a conclusion that will make everyone happy. 

4. Why do you think these issues have been associated with Philosophy and not some other discipline?

              These issues need to be questioned and thought about on a deeper level.  Since there is no right or wrong we must weigh all the possibilities.  I can?t see of any other discipline that these issues would fit under.  These are some of the most puzzling things life has to offer and Philosophy, even though it doesn?t give us an answer, helps us to better understand it.  It is only then that we can come even close to figuring out what is meant by most of these issues and where to take them from there.  All of these topics to me have seemed to be in search of a better life and we all would like that!         

VW

1.  I actually enjoyed the last assignment most of all.  I am hoping to someday enter into politics and it was interesting to see how people choose to be governed and in which ways laws are passed in order to achieve happiness and a sort of harmony.  It is amazing to me that we live in a world in which there are so many different ways of governing in order to provide for humans.  Also, I would like to be a senator and I think that it is important to learn the theories behind how a society sucessfully functions.  2.   

3.  As I have said many times before I believe that philosohpy has remained such an interesting and open topic because people will always be curious for knowledge.  Philosophy started with complex questions such as "what is the meaning of life."  Questions like these will never be definetly answered and I believe people will continue to discuss them and apply theories to them for years to come.  As long as people are living and thinking I believe that philosophy will remain a strong science. "Philosophy is an activity: a quest after wisdom."  As you stated in your last chapeter, people will always be questing for wisdom, therefore philosophy will remain strong.     

4.  "Philosophy is the only discipline of thought in which to ask "What is Philosophy?" remains a questions within the discipline."  I believe this is the reason that all of these issues are associated with philosohpy and not some other science. SInce philosophy has been described as the most crtical and comprehensive manner of thinking devised by human beings there is no other category for it.  It cannot fit under biology or psychology or any other science for that manner because it encompases too much thought. "Science, on the other hand, is quite critical in the evaluation of hypotheses and theories but it lacks the comprehensive nature of philosophic thought."    

5.  I think that we live in a world filled with ignorance.  For this reason we are often unwilling to be open to other's opinions and thoughts.  I do not think most people are ready to question or touch upon many of the topics philosophers address.  I think it is a most complicated science and therefore many would rather ignore it than conquer it.  "Philosophy as a critical and comprehensive process of thought involves resolving confusion, unmasking assumptions, revealing presuppositions, distinguishing importance, testing positions, correcting distortions, looking for reasons, examining world-views and questioning conceptual frameworks."  This is an intimidating way to define anything one must learn.  I believe that until humans are ready to tolerate the different theories of thought in this world many will not be open to the ideas of philosophy. 

6.&7.  I myself have never been so open to other's opinions nor have I ever wanted to discuss such complex issues.  I have always thought of philosophy as a scary science that I did not have the ability to conquer.  I believe that I have recieved more than I knew I would as a result of this class.  I am no longer afraid to accpet and understand the theories behind much of the way the world works.  I think it is exciting to explore the values behind the way we work.  Philosophy can be seen as a part of human growth and I believe through this class I have grown in many ways.  In many ways I think philosophers are the most intellectual of people.  They are never satisfied with just accepting something, but instead they would rather explore further and understand why.  They react and criticize things and therefore enhance their knowledge.  I hope to be able to do this as well.  In intend ontaking more classes in the field of philosophy and applying what I have learned in this class in order to succeed in others.  Since philosophy is a constant desire for wisdom I cannot see anything wrong with it.  Who wouldn't want to constantly achieve more wisdom?  I know I do.   

LG 

1. There have been so many issues that we have covered that are of such importance that it is very difficult to try to isolate it and answer with only one.  However, since I must, I would have to reply that it is the process of questioning that we have done throughout this course.  I think the dialectical process, together with our own questioning of ourselves, has been of the most importance to me personally.  As a personality flaw, I tend to jump to conclusions ? often with disastrous results.  (To my prior way of thinking, it seemed so logical.)  I think this slowing down, questioning and evaluating the base information, and then slowly analyzing each and every layer thereafter will be a valuable skill to me both personally and to me in my career choice as a C.P.A. 

2. So much of the information has helped me personally.  I think another area that meant a lot to me personally was our discussion about God and whether we believed in free will or determinism.  Although I still have my doubts on both sides, I know I will continue to explore these thoughts.  I found it unnerving at times, but I felt a sincerity of wonder and doubt on many issues that I held on to ?just because I always did?.   

3. How could they not be issues for eternity?  The course covers the perennial questions that mankind has pondered since the beginning of time, and I can only ?guestimate? will continue to ponder until the end of time.  There is no right or wrong answer.  The only fault can lie in the faulty reasoning that we have all committed during this semester.  The answers are unknown ? and to the best of our knowledge, will remain unknown. 

4. I think these issues have been associated with Philosophy because it is that quest for wisdom and knowledge to the ?unanswerable? questions of all time.  It is only through Philosophy, ?the most critical and comprehensive manner of thinking devised by human beings,? that we can even hope to better understand the issues, even if we are never able to answer the question. 

5. Unfortunately, our contemporary culture does not place much merit on  such topics.  Even more so before 9/11, our culture is one of convenience, superficiality, and laziness.  This is work ? lots of it!  Work with no monetary rewards, so how would the contemporary American culture embrace so much work without any monetary reward?  Most people are ?sheep,? just following the crowd.  The average person has blinders on and just doesn?t care about such issues.  They are so caught up in their everyday world and problems that they have little room for anything else. 

6. Why wasn?t I more aware?  See No. 5 above ? ?BAH BAH?  -- I was one of your typical American sheep, just ?schlepping? along with everyday problems. 

CC

I think the most important issue we covered this semester to me was the question of the existence of God.  It has been a question, although more in the back of my mind, for quite some time.  This class gave me the tools to approach the question in a way I feel more confident approaching it in.  I feel more grounded in my own personal feelings after reasoning than I would have prior to the class. 

The issue of religion has had an impact on me, particularly, because I was raised a Catholic and had guilt feelings about abandoning organized religion.  It was good to see I am not alone and that it is braver and wiser to seek truth for myself rather than blindly follow as I had. 

It seems that many of the issues covered in the course have been issues for so long because they are issues that have no definite form of proof tied to them.  People believe in God, but there is no proof.  We can reason that there is no soul, but perhaps there is.  There is just no proof.  These issues are life-changing issues -- issues that many people build their whole life around. 

It makes sense that these issues have been associated with Philosophy because all you can do is think through the "pros and cons" to each side and come up with a conclusion that makes the most sense.   

I think most of these issues are issues that would make people uncomfortable to delve into because it could quite possibly change the way they look at things and perhaps the way the live.  People are comfortable with "faith" for example, and admitting there is the possibility that God does not exist could shake their very core. 

It is quite possible that for that very reason, I, myself was not able to think about these issues to the degree I have this semester.  It is easier to be comfortable than to be shaken up. 

AD 

            The most important issue, which has also meant the most to me is what we discussed in this class what about God. I was brought up to believe in him however I never really knew all the stories about him. My knowledge consisted mainly of ?there?s a supreme being who created us, the earth and all creatures, etc and he rules over us and helps guide us through life.? As I got older and began to hear some of the stories in school I didn?t believe them. I, myself questioned them. I dismissed it thinking that I have no faith in him because I didn?t learn about him until I was older and now I thought it had no meaning for me. But I?ve realized now that I really don?t need to believe in his existence and I?m not troubled by the fact that I have questions surrounding him and disbeliefs because no one really knows for sure and that?s okay because I don?t think the belief in God is about knowing for sure or not whether he exists, but it?s about faith, faith in something and not necessarily someone who guides us and is there for us.

            The issues we discussed in this course, are issues and will remain issues because they cannot be proven. Their arguments are based mostly on logical reasoning and not fact. It?s a twisting of words to attempt to prove or disprove a certain belief. Many of the things we discussed need more evidence, things we?ve most likely yet to learn about and who knows if we ever will. These issues have been focused towards philosophy and not other things because philosophical thought forces you to question and even if you?ve come up with what you think may be the answer there is a question that can?t be answered that attempts to disprove it.

            These questions are not more ?public? because most people don?t chose to question. They believe what they have been told and what has been put into their heads from the time they were born. They hear a good argument to prove something and they walk away believing it. They don?t examine every angle of it and they DON?T question. I was not more aware of some of these issues because I haven?t been exposed to the other side of what I believe in. I was close -minded and I never thought to question what I?ve always been told to be true.     

LB

1.  The issues covered this semester that have been the most important is that of the

?birth? of philosophy and the early philosophers such as Socrates and Plato.  This

important module helped to start the opening of the mind and the thinking process of

what philosophy is and how the process has evolved.  In understanding how the

Greeks have played an intrigue part of todays society and how Plato has changed the

way people come to question issues, is the start to what philosophy was, is and

possibly what the future will be.  Philosophy is not a way of life but rather an action of

progress, of critical and analytical thought.  Without the understanding of pre, and early

philosophy it would be hard to gain a basis of understanding the philosophical

discipline. 

2.  The issues covered this semester that has meant anything to me personally is that

of the existence of God.  Ever since my beloved grandfather passed away, I have had

many questions about God.  Although I still have some unanswered questions

regarding God, it gave me some insight into the presence and belief that many have

about Him.  I still belief that God exists and I no longer feel guilty for questions my

belief and have been enlightened by what I have learned from others, both classmates

and philosophers, about God.

3.  The reason I think that the issues covered in this course have been issues and

remained issues for as long is because of human evolution and experience.

Philosophy is not a discipline of absolute right or wrong.  As society grows and its

people advance and change so does the discipline of philosophy.  As we advance with

technology, so advances philosophy.  As long as human beings continue to change

and advance, pursuing greater wisdom, these issues will remain issues within the field

of philosophy.

4.  These issues have been associated with philosophy and not some other discipline

because they are not ?clear-cut? problems or issues of yes or no, right r wrong.  These

issues involve the process of analytical and critical thought.  The process of thought

that is beyond plain logic and acceptance.  Philosophy is a distinction of human activity

and thought.  It is a critical action of process into the ways and ways of what we value

in pursuit of wisdom.

5.  These issues have not been so evident as issues in our contemporary culture and

not more people are aware of these troublesome, questions, issues or problems is

because of the view of traditional world views as inappropriate.  With all the scientific

advances in science and knowledge people are often too quick to take what they are

told instead of questioning it.  The why and how come.  We have become detached

from the basis of gaining true knowledge and are afraid of questioning what we are

taught,  To gain true knowledge we must take a step back, look where we came and

move forward on a quest of greater wisdom.

6.  I was not more aware of these issues at the start of the course then I am now

because I took everything that I was taught and told what to believe at ?face-value?.

With others around me believing and doing the same, I thought that that was how it was

suppose to be.  Never questioning or analyzing.  But now I see that to get the true

understanding and knowledge that you must be critical in thinking to learn and value

many things in life.

7.  Now that I have been educated as to these issues in philosophy they will have a

consequence in my life that I will be more apt to have an open mind in not only what I

experience and learn but in how I will teach my children.  It is okay to be analytical and

question issues.  In order to gain greater knowledge and wisdom you must pursuit it

and not be afraid to use the intellectual process of both analytical and synthetic

DJ

1.  The issues about ethics and what is GOOD.  These were very impostant to me becuase everyday I make judgemnets and decisions.  It was good to see some breakdown of the human code of ethics. 

2.  The issues about there being a god and if there is something other than the physical.  Since September 11th I have been faced with the issue of death.  This has really scared me and I have been searching for answers and/or safety.  Although I have not found either completely, I feel our discussions on these topics helped me a lot. 

3.  I believe these issues have bben for so long because humans have a way of ingraining certain ideas into their heads and have a hard time getting rid of them.  What people believe is a hard thing to change.  Also, I think these are everlasting issues because there is no one solid answer.  Theories build upon theories, which cretae advancement, but nothing is perfectly clear. 

4.  Most other disciplines utilize the physical in order to document.  Philosophy takes non-solid ideas and disects them. 

5.  The problems concerning these issues are so scarce in our society because ideas are passed down from generations, which make them almost second nature.  Also because it is frowned upon to question these types of ideas. 

6.  In some ways I was aware, but I think once someone starts you on the course of questioning everything it is easy to spot.  In our culture that is not an encouraged thing to do. 

7. I think that this course will affect every part of my life.  It has taught my brain a particular way to think critically, which I hope I do not lose.
============================================

LB

1. Which of the issues covered this semester has been most important and why so? 

To me, the most important issue covered this semester had to do with the Existence of God. I was forced to admit that  their are  weaknesses to the arguments for the existence of God and examined those arguments logically. I challenged beliefs that I had held out of tradition and complacency. 

2. Which of the issues covered this semester has meant anything to you personally and why so?  

Again, the issues concerning the existence of God were important to me because by questioning a belief that seemed to be unshakable, I was able to address many of the other issues in this course outside of a faith-based perception.  

3. Why do you think that the issues this course has covered have been issues and remained issues for so long?  

Many of the issues discussed in this course are fundamental to questioning our very existence. We have been unable to obtain sensible/tangible proof to prove our beliefs. Therefore, speculation is perpetuated. 

4. Why do you think these issues have been associated with Philosophy and not some other discipline?  

  Many of these issues cannot be dealt with in some tangible way, they have to deal with issues that are outside of the tangible world where only processes of thought and reason can help to determine actions. A horticulturist can determine how plants grow, a geologist can determine why the earth behaves the way that it does and a Philosopher can examine the way that we come to view things. 

5. Why is it that most of these issues have not been so evident as issues in our contemporary culture? Why are not more people aware of these troublesome questions, issues or problems ?  

Many people have accepted the answers of their traditions, upbringing and faith. They have not been pressed to deal with many of these issues because they may not perceive them to be issues. 

6. Why were you not more aware of these issues than you were at the start of this course?  

I was content to concern myself with only those issues that had to do with my immediate surroundings. I believed that my senses were infallible and I too had been content to accept what I had been told by others. 

7. Now that you have been educated as to these issues in Philosophy, in what way will they have any consequence in your life? 

KL

1.Which of the issues covered this semester has been the most important and why so?

The philosophy of religion module was most important in my opinion.  Trying to understand the issues and opinions regarding life and faith can be difficult, but evaluating yourself and your own faith can be beneficial to your own quality of life.  Knowing what to place faith in is the ultimate concept of life.  Why do I live each day?  It is different for all people and I feel the module helped each student grow in some way.

2. Which of the issues covered this semester has meant anything to you personally and why so?

The philosophy of religion module as well as the ethics module meant a lot to me.  I consider myself a religious person, and sometimes when I doubt my faith I ask such questions as those discussed in the two modules (ie. Who is God? How do I know God exists? What is good? What defines what good is?)  Knowing where we came from, where we go when we die, how to get to that place, and what to place faith in throughout our lives is of great interest to me.  I learned a lot about religions and stances on where human life originated.  It is fascinating to me, partly because we may never know.

3.Why do you think that the issues this course has covered have been issues and have remained issues for so long?

There is no one definite answer that all humans can agree on and prove.  The issues entertain the mind. There will never be answers to some of the questions, but humans will still want answers. 

4. Why do you think these issues have been associated with Philosophy and not some other discipline?

All of the issues discussed are world issues, most of great importance to human beings and quality of life for us. The issues are group into philosophy because of the thought process they require when evaluating them.

5. Why is it that most of these issues have not been so evident as issues in our contemporary culture? Why are not more people aware of these troublesome questions, issues or problems?

Many people don't spend time thinking about the issues, or don't think it is worth the time thinking about issues, when there will be no conclusion, and no one answer.  Some may have a 'Who cares?' attitude thinking that it doesn't matter what they think since they will never know if they are right. I do think that people are aware of the problems in our political system though, but those issues are trying to be resolved by the government. 

6. Why were not you more aware of these issues than you were at the start of this course?

Although these are everyday issues that I find extremely important in life, I was not so aware of them, or the stances/positions available on these issues.  I think many take for granted why they believe what they believe or how they think about things.  We have been taught in this class to provide reason for our thoughts and valid arguments against other thoughts.

7. Now that you have been educated as to these issues in Philosophy in what way will they have any consequence in your life?

I have learned to accept the thoughts of others.  I have learned to evaluate my feelings on a particular subject and present the in an organized manner.  I have learned to question all that I believe in a search for WHY I believe it.

HH

1. The most important issue covered this semester was probably the philosophy of religion. Many people questioned the existence of God and many other religious beliefs.  I think this is important because people learn exactly what their religion means, and under why they are following that religion. It helps them find answers to many different questions like the existence of God, and of what importance is religion in their lives.

2. I think the issue of freedom and determinism had meant a lot to me. I beleive that we are not free but we are determined.  I side with destiny and fate, so this issue was personally one i had the most interest in.

3. I think the issues in this course have been covered and still remain issues because they dont have any real answers.  These issues help us think and question these issues.  This is the whole point of philosophy, that we think of certain issues, thats why these issues have been covered because it gives us a chance to use our own thinking skills and to help us find the answers we beleive are the right ones.

4.  These issues have been associated with Philosophy because Philosophy is the study of analytical, logical, and emperical thinking. Philosophy is the course where we question certain issues and these issues are in this course because these are everyday issues that we have a hard time finding answers for.

5.  I don’t think people are aware of these questions/problems because they haven’t been exposed to them directly.  People might not know what to do or how to solves these issues or even where to solve them. All these issues just remain a mystery.

6.  I think i started realizing and questioning these issues when i started this course.  I had never really thought about any of them until this course, which is why I am happy I took this course because i had a chance to be exposed to these problems, and also i got a chance to view other people’s aspects on these same problems.

7.  I think after this course, i will look at these issues more openly, along with many other issues. This course has taught me how to handle these types of issues. Later on in life if i do come across these issues, i will have a better sense of how to view and answer them.

SP

The issues that were most important to me were the normative ethical relativism theory because it talks about your morals and good and bad, and what you think is right in different societies.  This is effecting me not personally, but with everything happening in the world like the raping and killing of innocent little girls it is scary.  Obviously these men do not know right from wrong, and they are just sick and it bothers me that there are people like that out there in the world. 

            A topic that has meant something to me personally is the categorical theory, because it states basically do to others, as you would want done to you.  This is so right because my mom and dad have always taught me that.  Its like when you make fun of someone its not right, because you wouldn?t want someone talking bad about you, or hurting them in a way that you don't wont to be hurt.  I guess it?s just a rule to live by, and it is a good one.

            All the issues are good one and they have been around forever because no one can agree to just one right action.  Everyone's values and morals are different in all different types of ways, and when you discuss free will, or reality, or egoism, everyone is going to side with oneself on the issue, and then even if the law is involved, people are still going to do whatever they want to do.

            Basically it is associated with philosophy because most of these ideas came from a philosopher, and they are fundamentally theories.  Its all-higher meaning of things rather then quick and simple topics, they have detailed, and are very difficult which philosophy is.

            These have been issues because it revolves around everyday life, like believing that we should have freedom, or why does god really exist and the reality of all things.  We deal with all of these topics, we might not think of them as philosophy but that is where it all comes from.  People aren't aware of these problems, because most Americans lead very busy exhausting lives, and they don't have time to think about these problems they just know that they are out there.  They are more worried about getting their nails done, or which bar their going out to this weekend, or finishing there homework for school, their not really worried about these problems that started 100?s of years ago.

            I wasn?t aware of these issues either, because I fit in the average working American that is going to her job everyday, and trying to finish up with college, and basically not even caring, because I don?t have to solve these problems in the world, that is why there is a president and so many others under him to worry about that stuff.

EW

1.  The issue covered that has been the most important to be was the philosophy of religion.  I found it interesting to see all the points of views of others to back up their belief.  Attnding catholic school my whole life has made me feel that when it comes to religion, I have been sheltered a great deal.  It was good to see so many people had their own beliefs. 

2. The issue that has meant anything personally to me has also been the philosophy of religion.  For the past several years, I have thought a lot about my own religion and why I beleive what I do.  It is often hard to beleif in something you are told to belief in.  I am a strong Roman Catholic, but could not help to questiuon my beliefs.  Through the discussions, it was good to see that one or two of the other students had the same questions as myself.   

3.  I think that hte issues this course has covered have been issues for so long becuase their are so many differnet ways to go with finding a just answer to these issues.  It would be hard to come to one decision on many of these issues becausae it is hard to please everyone.  People have different backgrounds and have had different experiences and live in different places.  I beleive that these fators have made these issues reamin for so long.  The issues we covered are controversial issues, thuerefore, everyone has their own side and opinion.  I beleive that they will be aroung for an even longer period of time.   

4.These issues have been associated with phiosophy, rather than another discipline because they are topics which seem to be questioned alll the time.  Other disciplines include topics which are easier to find ansers to.  But philosophical issues will always be around and their are endless beliefs and theories regarding these issues.   

5.It seems that many people are not concerned with the issues that were diascussed because of the way that our world is today.  In our contemporary culture, individuals are to concerned with their own crazy lives.  There seems to be a lot less time and a lot more worrying.  Topics like, metaphysics, political and social philosophy, and ethics just aren't on as many minds as they used to be.  Of course there are people today who do care about this, and I beleive most people do have opinions on this, but because of today's world, they do not show them as much.   

6.As I previously mentioned, today's world is differnet form the way it used to be.  Topics that were of great controversy and question years ago are not as popular as they once were.  Before taking this course, I was not aware of many of these contoversial issues.  It may be because they are not as big of a deal as they used to be.  It could also be becasue I have been a bit sheltered at times.  Perhaps  I just never seemed to take notic to issues like we discussed.  Now that I took the course though, I do realize I do have strong beliefs on issues and even support of these beliefs.   

7. Now that I have been educated of these topic in philosophy, I can more confidently stand up for my beliefs and support my opinions.  Taking this course made me realize that you can question anything and there are so many different views on every topic.  

KO

1.  I would say that of all the issues covered this semester, the most important one was defining what Philosophy actually is.  I think many if not all of us were completely mistaken in what we initially thought it was.  And now, knowing what it truly means has been such a revelation. 

2.  Of all the issues covered this semester, what has meant the something to me personally is that of the Philosophy of Religion.  Maybe not in the way that was intended, but my faith is what has come through.  I don't think a person's faith can be measured w/ science or philosophy.  I believe what the text says about proofs.  "Believers do not need them and Unbelievers will not heed them."  I want to read more of the writings of Thomas Aquinas, C.S. Lewis, and William James.  I think you could see their faith in their writings...but unlike me they were able to substantiate it philosophically.  I can't argue w/ those writers who question the very existence of God, but I would love to someday be able to back my faith up w/ proof.  So, I guess this unit has made me want to prove to myself the existence of God and to help me back up my faith with more than just my feelings. 

3.  I think that the issues covered in this course have remained issues because of their very basic nature.  They are the foundation of everything in our life....reality, faith, knowledge, truth, freedom, morality....and the list goes on.  Everything we are and our our values are based on these, so they live on as very relevant topics. 

4.  I think these issues have been associated with Philosophy and not to any other discipline because we are always trying to learn about and decipher these topics.  They aren't cut and dry and therefore not able to be covered in a science course.  Each philospher bases their theories on the works of others before them and they continue to add to these theories...constantly expanding and changing them.  This makes it not a precise science, but ready for the questions that philophy has to ask. 

5.  These issues have not bed so evident as issues in our contemporary culture because we are living in a time of very negative behavior.  Life isn't as pure and innocent as it might once have been.  It is a dark time where children are using drugs, having babies and murdering one another.  There is no faith, truth or morality there.  I don't think more people are aware of these troublesome issues because of how they are and have been raised.  Immorality is taught and experienced.  Those few people who raise these questions are often mocked.   

6.  I don't think I was more aware of these issues at the start of class because I feel that we get numbed from the world around us.  We are exposed to the negativity, the death, the immorality, the lies at a very early age.  We grow up maybe slightly aware of the good, but the negativity has proven itself time and time again.  We are more comfortable with it and expect it.  So when we are more fully exposed to truth and faith among others, they are foreign concepts. 

7. Now that I have been educated as to these issues in Philosophy, I feel that my life will not be the same.  I have learned to question where I never have before.  I think that is how we continue to grow as people.  In my Freshman Seminar class, my professor stressed becoming a "Master Student", a "Lifelong Student".  I didn't understand those concepts until now.   Taking part in Philosophy, since it is an action and not a thing, means questioning and learning constantly.  I also hope to learn more especially about the Philosophy of Religion.  I don't want to simply react with blind faith.
====================================

CE

IL

The most important issue dealt with in philosophy for me had to have been religion. Because it deals with religion in a rational thought process without assuming information regarding the existence of a deity or reliance on acts of faith. The existence of God has been the most fascinating subject debate among philosophers. There are arguments based on reason, ontological, cosmological, and teleological. Than there are arguments based on experience, revelation, mystical, direct religious experience, psychic phenomena, and miracles. Another argument is pragmatism based on your odds, which add up to faith and reason. Philosophers attempt to prove and disprove the existence of God with all these arguments.

Personally the most important issues was again religion and ethics. Religion for reasons stated above and ethics because it shows me the ideas in which people debate their moral obligation. These issues today have been debated for many years and many more still to come. Mainly, because history keeps repeating itself. And of course because we are human.

Philosophy is the most critical and comprehensive manner of thinking devised by human beings.

Philosophy is not a "Way of Life" . Every person does not have his or her own "Philosophy". Philosophy is not simply a theory about something. Nor is Philosophy a belief or a wish. Philosophy is an activity: a quest after wisdom. Philosophy is an activity of thought. Philosophy is a particular unique type of thought or style of thinking. Philosophy is not to be confused with its product. What a philosopher provides is a body of philosophic thought NOT a Philosophy. A philosopher enacts a Philosophy, a quest after wisdom. This is why I think that the issues are discussed in philosophy and not in other discipline.

It is COMPREHENSIVE in attempting to address social and human problems reflective inquiry must come to bear on a wide range of affairs with a critical eye that is unwavering.

As on issue leads into another, as reality as experienced is One, so too is thought about such actual human affairs revelatory of the interconnection of issues and the underlying unity. Such thought attempts to show how the principles of explanation and basic categories of any conceptual schema are applicable throughout the breadth and depth of human experience. Such Philosophic thought at its most abstract levels reveals the basic insights into every area of life. Our contemporary world is what it is partly as a result of past philosophical inquiry. Consider the impact and importance of Greek thought for mathematics, modern science and technology.

Much of our world has come to be the way it is as a result of the world-views developed by philosophers and criticized and reformulated by philosophers and most of these thinkers were Hellenized-Christians, in fact DWEM's!!

Part of our contemporary dilemma is the inappropriateness of such traditional, even classical, world-views in the light of recent scientific advances in knowledge. In our present state not only the moral ends and hierarchy of values that accompanied such world-views have become dislodged but also the very notion of what thought can do for a society or a civilization. Philosophers have surely contributed to the current situation being what it is and they shall contribute to whatever direction thought is to take in the immediate future as humans continue to grapple with the perennial issues and the most basic questions humans must answer. These issues and questions have been, are now, and, for some time to come, will continue to be associated with Philosophy. Philosophy seeks after clear enunciation of purpose and values and precise formulation, without which human beings encounter a void, feel lost-without purpose or meaning, without a sense of place, without a relation to the rest of the universe.

So, Philosophy is an activity of thought, which may become a way of life. It is primarily a pursuit after wisdom. It is a critical and comprehensive inquiry into the ways in which what we know can be used to obtain what we value. Philosophy is one of the most, if not THE most, distinctive of all human activities, as such Philosophy has been and may continue to be of importance in the live of humans, around the world.

            I believe that I was not aware of these issues before this course, because of easy way of thinking.  Now I will question everything for a rational answer instead of an easy one. The biggest consequence in my life after taken this class would be the search ffor mor rational answers through debate and discussion.

DB

1.Which of the issues covered this semester has been the most important and why so?

I believe that the issues on the body and mind have been the most important to me. It has made me more aware the realities and concepts regarding the mind and body.  It brought to my attention questions I never knew I had regarding this issue.

2. Which of the issues covered this semester has meant anything to you personally and why so?

As answered in the first question, I believe that the body and mind issues were the issues that hit me personally. I did not realize many of the questions that evolved around this issue. It was easy for me to answer, yes I have a body and a mind but took look deeper into the question was simply amazing.

3.Why do you think that the issues this course has covered have been issues and have remained issues for so long?

I believe that many of the issues here have been issues for so long because there are no true answers. There are too many opinions and no one may really know the answer to many of the questions.

4. Why do you think these issues have been associated with Philosophy and not some other discipline?

I believe these issues are related to Philosophy because you can take any issue and educate yourself more by analyzing and looking deeper into the issue itself. I found that this is what many of the Philosophical issues require.

5. Why is it that most of these issues have not been so evident as issues in our contemporary culture? Why are not more people aware of these troublesome questions, issues or problems?

I do not think people are aware of some of these issues simply because they see the world as it is and not wonder any further than that. I admit, I  would have never questioned many of the issues discussed prior to taking this class.

6. Why were not you more aware of these issues than you were at the start of this course?

As stated in number 5. I do not think that I put any thought into these issues. I never looked any further than what I already knew.

7. Now that you have been educated as to these issues in Philosophy in what way will they have any consequence in your life?

JM

I have to say the issues on Good and Evil as well as Determinism have been the most important to me as they have always been questions on my mind.  I have always wondered about the whole Good and Evil issue.  I question most things I do and have done in my wondering if I have made the right decisions, if I made the right or Good choice.  I try to live my life with no regrets.  Also, the whole God issue, I BELIEVE in God even though I have no physical proof that he exists.  It has helped to see that throughout all time this has been an on going question, that I am not alone.  I have learned from my classmates through their thoughts.  Some have truly strong convictions when it comes to God or their religion and others are just not sure what they should or want to believe in.  Again it helps to hear all sides.  As far as the Determinism issue, I have always felt that we are here for a reason.  This only helped make my beliefs stronger.  What we do and how we act has been predestined.  I believe in destiny and in fate.  Reading the lessons, though I got confused at times, has helped me to see the different types of beliefs which I really had no idea existed. 

            The issues we have covered in this class have been around for so long is because there can be no definitive answers.  Look at the whole God issue.  How can we PROVE without a doubt that he exists?  We can?t.  I don?t think the answers will be revealed until we die, and at that time it is not really going to us any good.  We as humans like instant gratification.  We like it when we question something there is a right and wrong answer.  This cannot be in philosophy.  There are too many grey areas.  Things are not as cut and dry as we would like them to be.  I think these issues will continue to be debated until the end of time.

            These issues are associated with Philosophy and not some other discipline because Philosophers are natural questioners.  They look for answers I think more than another would.  They tend to be able to delve deep into these issues where as another may only scratch the surface.  They do not come up with questions just for the sake of questioning, they are well thought out and tend to be extremely thought provoking.

I feel that more people are not more aware of these issues due to blind faith.  Most of the time we have closed minds, we believe what we believe and that?s it.  We don?t want to hear something different.  We do not want to question our precious beliefs.  We can call it ignorance or that we just have the blinders on.  It is easier to just go through life and just accept what we always have as truth.  Why put ripples in our lives or our beliefs.

            I was not aware of most of these issues before the start of this class simply because I never thought about it.  Like I said there are certain issues I thought about but truly not to this extent.  Again we are taught certain things and beliefs from when we are little and taught not to question it.  It was never really a topic of conversation such as Compatibilism or Determinism.  We do not really talk about the whole political philosophy such as Marxism unless we are in a classroom setting.  I am sure there are people out there who may, that are not philosophers but I think on the whole they are, I guess you can call them, lost topics.

EG

Over the course of the semester I feel that I have successfully reached the goals that I set forth for myself at the outset of this summer.  I am very pleased with the way that things developed, and now feel that I am more able to think about, debate about, and reach conclusions about some very significant issues.  For that I am thankful.

I think the most important module that we addressed this semnester was the last module that pertained to social and political philosophy.  I think that the theories addressed there are very relevant to our everyday lives, and that we are constantly asked to find a balance between ourselves and our neighbors.  This module and the idealogies addressed in it will help to find and determine a balnce therein.

There were so many issues that our class touched on during this course that I am hard-pressed to find which one was the most important to me personally.  The one that I will most often reflect upon, if that means that it is the most important, is the question that relates to the existence of God.  I have only had two career aspirations in my life, one was to join the clergy and the other is to work in medicine, both require the consideration of God.  I also think that this is the most often discussed philisophical topic between myself and my friends, for that I am glad to have a foundation in its theories and developments.

All of the issues that we covered are long-standing issues in philosophy.  That is probably largely because there is no answer  that can satisfy the mind completely.  Philosophies questions are questions that everyone can hold a different opinion about, be it right or wrong, because no objective correctness can be applied to everything (much as we discussed in the epistemology module). 

Were these questions not asked in the discipline of philosophy, I have to wonder where else they could be addressed.  Philosophy, unlike other disciplines, has the tools to address these questions;  it has the capacity to offer an intelligent criticism of an idea.  Some of these questions (like that on politically ideaology) can be thought about by politicians, but it is a controversial question.  Perhaps controversy could be included as an integral part of a question that puts it in the field of philosophy;  perhaps it is the proverbial final nail in the coffin that sends it our way.  I mean if everyone agreed that there was one reality then whyt at all would there be any need to question or critisize it. 

In our fast paced lives many of us have lost sight of the fundamental issues that we have addressed in this course.  This may be because we are given information that forces us to make assumptions about our world.  Oftentimes, the assumptions made are related to these issues (that there is one relaity, that everyone is entitled to an opinion, etc.).  These assumptions have been so often repeated that they have become an ingrained part of our lifestyles and they no longer beg our attention.  It is a shame when you really look at it.  The very thought of these issues often prompts a better feeling, a more conclusive feeling (even though your answer may not be conclusive) about our world.  For me I feel that even though I may not KNOW the answer, at least I have looked at a number of the possibilies and chose the one that seems to fit best.

Personally, I was aware of many of the issues that were presented here, What I wasn't aware of were the immense number of ideas that were out there to answer these questions.  i think that is simply because, as mentioned above, the "answers" (even as narrow as they may have been) had already been "provided," and I really didn't have to actively seek them as I did here. 

These issues, now that I know what I do about them, will definitely impact my life.  Their influence will be seen directly (in my debates and in my future philosophy related courses) and indirectly (in practice and thought).  I know that in my debates, which are as often as possible, I will most certainly tap into the vast amount of information that I have aquired here both as ameans of providing a valid argument, and as a means of offering a pertinent criticism of the issue;  in that way I will be practicing philosophy.  in my thinking these thoughts will permeate my every perspective.  Be it about God, about polotics, about relaity, or about the nature of the questions themselves.  I know that it has made me more adept at interpreting the opinions of others and at expressing my own ideas.  I know that in that way it will be with me every day for the rest of my life. 

CF

1.Which of the issues covered this semester has been the most important and why so?

Personally, the topic on Mind-Body Problem and Religion are very important. After reading and participating in the discussion, I found myself questioning everyday life, like does "free will" exist, or is my life already mapped out for me? Does God exist, and if so - what type of God? Does God set the rules governing my life? Or do I just go with the flow of my desires? There are so much interesting thinking around these topics. For example, we have been taught to be good, but what is good? I started to realize there is no any certain code of morality that can be applied to everyone. And it?s never right to judge someone simply because he/she holds different moral codes.

2. Which of the issues covered this semester has meant anything to you personally and why so?

I would say Ethics. Ethics is that branch of philosophy defines the code of values which guide our choices and actions. It is relevant to every person on this planet. Almost every morning, on my way to my first full time job, I ask myself, ?what is the purpose of my life? And how do I go to achieve it?? Further more, I grew up in two different countries, and was adapted to two completely different cultural backgrounds. I have been asked by friends that which culture is better or from which country that people were more ethical. I could not answer. There are so many different ways to guide behavior, which one is the correct way to live is difficult to determine. There are always situations that seem to be the exception to the rule. Thanks to the study of philosophy, ethics has evolved into a more refined and complete theory.

3.Why do you think that the issues this course has covered have been issues and have remained issues for so long?

People reason to acquire knowledge and grasp truth.  Although, all these issues are well thought and challenged, there are NO perfect answers to any of these issues and often flaws can be found in other?s conclusions.

4. Why do you think these issues have been associated with Philosophy and not some other discipline?

According to the dictionary, most (if not all) of these issues are covered under Classical, Medieval and Modern Philosophy.  Personally, since reasoning has always been treated as a vivid, objective tool to acquire philosophical knowledge, and since the nature of studying these issues requires so much reasoning and debating, there must be strong association between these issues and Philosophy

5. Why is it that most of these issues have not been so evident as issues in our contemporary culture? Why are not more people aware of these troublesome questions, issues or problems?

Unfortunately, most people have the wrong perception about Philosophy. It is generally seen as having little connection to real life, and something a person might engage in if he/she has nothing better to do with his/her time. Actually, every single individual has a perspective of the world, of themselves, and of their relationship to reality. Living in everyday 9 to 5 lives, many curiosities within us have been destroyed. We don?t remember when was the last time we wondered about life, but we sure do know how much bills are left unpaid. These tired souls start taking things and answers for granted, never bothered again to ask why. Even as students, we often too busy taking lecture notes to stop and think. In addition, Philosophy is believed that it is only a subject for the intellectual elite, with no relevance to the common man.

6. Why were not you more aware of these issues than you were at the start of this course?

I had a misconception about Philosophy. Actually since I was little, I have been asking my parents and myself many of these questions, like ?Is there really a heaven? Where is it located in the universe? Why are people so different? Is there such a thing called fate? But most of the times I felt my thoughts were irrelevant and impractical to the real world. I was ignorant about people actually dedicate their lives to looking for the truth about these issues.

7. Now that you have been educated as to these issues in Philosophy in what way will they have any consequence in your life?

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FC

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 What I liked best is actually also what I liked worst. The constant questioning of my beliefs, and all the possiblities and reasoning and theories out there. I now feel like I am in a constant deep thought even with trival ideas. As much as I enjoyed or should I say, have been enjoying this class, it has just brought about so much confusion 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 The written assignments sometimes were too vague. Especially when it took some time to have them sent back to us with a grade. Each teacher has their own expectations and system of grading, usually after you get your first paper back, it determines the outcome of the following papers. When I didn't see my papers back immediately, it was hard to write a decent paper for the next module. But I must say, the professor makes up for that, in allowing the students to redo the paper.  

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 In this class so far, I have seen the most discussion and interacting in all of my on line classes. I think the student chat,and the first module, are good things because the classmates get to know each other. This helps because as we got into some heavy topics it made it easier for us to all engaged in coversation. Atleast that's what I think.

THe only improvement I would suggest was in the begining it was hectic with the amounts of postings. But that can be easily fixed with the seperation of the class in the begining.  

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

For a summer class, I think they were sequenced the best they could be. Everything is condensed and its ALOT of material to take on, but I think it was arrangedly pretty well.  

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 The quantity of work is okay. A paper for every module or so, is fair. It's ALOT of reading, but I expected that, so it wasn'treally a problem for me.  

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 I think you participated when needed, and your interaction with the students was good. The only problem I have is with the timing of the grades. But I understand theres alot of papers to read, and it is not as easy as grading a multiple choice test.  

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

Just the splitting of the class in the VERY begining, and if the class happens to dwindle down to join the two together. Don't do away with the student chat area. Maybe summarize the links like the other students suggested during the mid-semester evaluation. 

 DB

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 I found this course to be very stimulating. I had no idea what I was about to experience and it has been a very interesting class. I did not find the course to be too difficult. Although i did not get high grades, I gave it my all and learned many things I did not know that will be helpful in everyday life. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 Honetly, I found the course and it's structure to be very simple. Eady to follow. I do not see any need for improvement in that area. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 Regardign interactions and class discussions. I found the material to be consistent with the text. And I think that the participation was very good. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

I do not see the need for changing the pace for this course. From the very beginning, we were warned about the pazce and with that in mind, it was easy to keep up with. There were no suprises. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 Less reading . I feel that there was too much reading for what was being asked for discussion and written assignments.  

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 No need for improvement 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

A job well done! Enjoyed this experience. Thank you.

EG

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 I was very satisfied with the core questions in this course.  i have long been a fan of intelligent debate and every word in this course was music to my ears.   

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 The one thing I wasn't very fond of was the way some of the assignments were structured.  I think it would be wise to refine some of the questions asked.  An example of a problem that bothered me was in module five regarding truth and reality.  I was not pleased that the last question was simply "What if there are differences between two different realities/truths...yada yada yada"  i had spent my entire paper explaining how there could really be only one, so i just touched on this question and I lost points. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 I don't think that there is any way to improve these, they are great altogether.  Unless you can find a way to make more people participate, i think you're unable to make this portion of the course any better. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

Everything was sequenced well, my only qualm with any of this was the sheer amount of reading i had to do.  i knew it was an undertaking, but it cut away from the time I could discuss on the message boards.  It was really squished, but that's part of the game I suppose. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 Quantity of work was great.  this was not so extensive that i wasted a vast amount of time, yet it gave me an opportunity for mne to show you what i learned while hopefully giving you enough material to evaluate me. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 You were there with input when necessary and helped keep the course on target, I think that's all you really need to do.  I think it was good that you didn't get so involved that everyones opinions suddenly agreed with your own, it would have made for a terrible forum. 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

BP

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 This was my first online course and I had a good experience. I didn't know what to expect or how different it would be from a regular classroom, but there isn't much difference. I liked the interaction with other students. I also liked that you can work at your own pace and you can do the work anytime of the day that is convenient.   

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 The only thing I would think that needed to be improved was that there was so much reading, that it may help to have a better summary area.  

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 To improve interaction, there should be sort of an instant message type discussion area, so that you can get instant questions and answers between students.   

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

I think the pacing and the sequence of the content and activities was good. Being that this wss a summer class, it was very fast paced for me. It has to be in the short amount of time we had. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 I wouldn't change the quantity of work. I think that having discussion questions, like you would in a classroom setting, and a written assignment was fine. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 The professor always participated in our discussion, pushing us to answer the questions that were needed to be answered. The professor was easily accessible either through discussion or private folder.  

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

PH

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 My interaction with other students and thier attempt to understand my positions. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 Reduce some of the required readings in order to stay focused on the specific discussion topics. Don't introduce more material than will be covered in the discussion topics. And provide a balanced, non biased, equal, amount of information on each topic. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 If you want true open interaction laike we saw during the first few modules, you will let the students alone to express thier ideas without personal criticisms. It is this interaction of free ideas which leads to learning. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

The course was structured fine if you take into account the reading loads, especially in the earlier modules. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 Review the amount of reading material in the earlier modules. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, andmanagement of the course? 

 The instructor should have limited participation in this setting. He should be there to help keep things on course and nothing more. When more is given, it comes across that he is personaly involved and has a bias to protect. Let the students do most of the communicating and watch thier learning curves increase.  

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the  instructor? 

LB

Part 1: What did you like best about this course?

 Clearly this course challenged some of our most cherished beliefs. If we are bound by assumptions that have been passed along as a matter of tradition or by our reluctance to ask some very difficult questions, then our quest for the truth about ourselves and our existence would be null and void. I found the questions, specifically the discussion questions, to be challenging and liberating.

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities?

 I think the structure of this course is fine ... separation of course material by module is logical and easily navigated. I cannot suggest any changes with regard to the structure or design of this course.

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions?

 The questions are challenging and thought provoking, the quality of discussion will depend on the motivation and preparedness of the students. The only suggestion that I would have in this area might be to limit the number of participants to each discussion.

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content

and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?)

The course materials were sequenced well, providing the proper foundation for the upcoming module. I found the Due dates challenging because of the volume of reading to be accomplished in the amount of time given. To be truly prepared to write a thoughtful paper, one must have read all of the given text and in some cases, outside material. If it were possible to extend the length of time for written assignments, the text material might be better absorbed. Given your time constraints, however, I don't know if this would be feasable.

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course?

 I think the quantity of material is necessary to fully address the issues in this introductory class. I wonder if this particular class might be best handled in only a traditional semester and avoided as a condensed course.

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course?

 I think the class at large would like to see more commentary from you, although I understand that this compels more inquiry of each other. If it were possible for you to comment more, without necessarily showing any sort of bias, others might find their direction more easily.

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor?

HH

Part 1: What did you like best about this course?

 The best thing i like about this course is the flexibility of the timings.  I liked how it is a course that we can take at home and we can work around the course depending on the hours that we have free to ourselves. The discussions are also good, they help us interact with one another. Overall the course is great.

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities?

 I think it is good the way it is, except in the written assignments, they should be a little more specific.

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions?

 I think the quality and participation in the course is fine.  Everyone interacts with one another in a perfect manner. I like seeing/learning new problems/ideas from other people's views.

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content

and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?)

The due dates were good. The pace of the course was also good. There are no changes needed to be done in this area.

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course?

 Some changes I would make is on the written assigments.  I think they should just be specific on the material we should be looking for, and also the length of the paper.

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course?

 The  professors interaction/participation/management was good in the course, it helped us learn what we were suppose to learn a bit better. It was nice seeing everything from the professors point of view so we could get a clearer idea of what we were learning.

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor?

CE

Part 1: What did you like best about this course?

 The best part about this course was not having any tests. I rather write essays than take a test.

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities?

 I think that the way the course is set up is well. I don't think I would really change anything.

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions?

 I would improve it by asking more questions that everyone can relate to. I feel as a younger student and not as experienced as some others in the class, some of the classmates would ask me questions about things that I have said, and I sometimes didn't know how to go about answering them.

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content

and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?)

I think the pace of the class went very well. None of the assignments seemed too overwhelming.

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course?

 I think maybe I wouldn't ask as much on the assignments that are due everyweek. Some of the essay questions were very long, and when you have a lot of other work to do, it sometimes gets fustrating trying to do everything to its best.

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course?

 I think that you handled participating and interacting with the class very well.

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor?

I don't think I really have anything else to say. This was my first time taking an online class, so it was all new to me. I also took two other classes at the school during the summer. So taking an online class eased up my schedule a little bit. Although I have to say, I did do more work for this class, than any other of my classes over the summer.

KO

Part 1: What did you like best about this course?

 I like the independence of an online class.

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities?

 I do not think that the online textbook is a good idea.  I tried but found it difficult to concentrate.  I then began printing out each chapter to give me a hard copy to read.  This was very time consuming.  But since I live far from the campus that this course is out of (my campus is the Western campus)it was difficult to get over there to buy the original textbook.  I wish I had found a way from the beginning to purchase it.

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions?

 I guess time would be beneficial.  By the time I have printed and finished reading the chapter, the discussions are well under way.  It is difficult to jump in and to understand them.  And it is impossible to participate until you have read the material.

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content

and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?)

I think this course would be best taught during a regular semester.  This class deserves the time alowable during a full semester as opposed to a summer semester.

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course?

 I thought there was a lot of reading to do in a short time.  I was forced to race through when I tend to be a slow reader.  I also do not feel that an online textbook is that convenient.  I tried to read online, but found it hard to concentrate, then I tried to print it out and found that I spent way too much time simply printing.  I should have bought the textbook initially. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course?

 I felt your participation interaction and management of the course was fine.  Your were there to guide and comment often but weren't controlling the conversations.  You allowed it to happen. 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

CC

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 I liked that the Professor expected us to really THINK about issues that I have personally put on the back burner for quite some time.  I also liked that it was online and even though a great amount of work was expected, I had the flexibility to "come to class" whenever I could. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 I have several suggestions:

Condense the links so that the materials is summed up and there is not so much duplicate reading. 

Create a "chat room" that is optional but allows the students to talk in "real time". 

Break the class into groups (2) in the beginning so that the discussions are not as lengthy.  Once the class gets going, it is harder to do that because people do not want to split up from those they have enjoyed having discussions with. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 Well, first, as I mentioned above, break the class into two or more groups from the onset so that it is not so overwhelming to log on and have so much to read through.

Secondly, I would ask that the Professor participate more in an actual discussion rather than for the majority only participating to point out when someone is wrong.  Ask questions that make the group think more about the topic --remember that this is an Intro class and many are unfamiliar with philosophy. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

I thought the pacing, sequence and content were fine. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 The quantity of work was fine.  Two things made the quantity more than it had to be:

1) All of our reading was online -- VERY hard on the eyes.  Perhaps offer the students the ability to buy printed versions of your online content.2) Condense the links by summarizing what is in them.  There was ALOT of duplication. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 As I already pointed out, I thought there could have been more participation by the instructor early in the module rather than more towards the end.  Also, it would have been helpful to have been asked questions that made us think more if we were going in the wrong direction.  There was somewhat of a negative feel to the comments at times by the Professor.  I would guess that some drop the course because they felt the comments were harsh.

The course overall was great.  I loved it.  I did not experience the negative feedback I described, I only witnessed it. 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

I bought the textbook because it was listed as "REQUIRED" in the course description for sln.  This should be changed, because I did not open the book once.  Forty dollars later (and I got mine cheap) I wish I would have known this book was optional.   

Oh yes, I almost forgot.  I did not receive my materials before the start of the class (the letter of introduction and info about the class).This should have gotten to me earlier.  If I had not taken an online course before, I would unsure what to do. 

LD

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 I really enjoyed the interaction with other classmates, including all sorts of feedback. I loved having

the opportunity to speak up and voice my opinion at anytime. In a conventional classroom

environment, there is little opportunity to do so; lecture time leaves the students little time for

interactions and dialogue. I have never experienced the freedom in any class as of yet, to voice my

opinion as we did in this class.It was a great experience to work though differences through the

dialectical process. I love that this class has opened my mind to issues that have long been buried,

or actually never before questioned: the existence of miracles, existence of God, origin of Evils,

and many other issues. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 I honestly feel that the structure and design of this class work extremely well. A student should take

the time to  surf through the entire structure, and it will be self explanatory at that point. I

experienced no difficulties at all with the structure and design. I love that you set up a chat area,

which helps to keep everyone on the track of the discussion, but enables us to socialize on our own

time. I think the posting of our grades and evaluations is very clear, and I like the way you break

each module down on a point system, we can follow our progress easily.  

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 The only thing would be to originally split the class in two if there is a large group. Then if both

groups lessen, you can combine them. It is difficult to split midway through, because we have

already started to interact and feed off other students. Yet, at the same time- with large groups,

checking new postings can be very time consuming. Also, there were times that I posted to

individuals that chose to either ignore what I said or just not post back..maybe that can be enforced

more...but it was a very minor issue..most students interacted really well with each other. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

The sequence of the course were obviously planned out well/ Each subject led into the next and

gave us information to base our next discussions on. This was very helpful in understanding the

next module. The time we were allotted for assignments were fine., if not-more than enough. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 The LINKS are very time consuming to read, and for people like myself whom are on the run:

timely and costly to print.As you have said, it would be better if they were each summarized, and

this is what we were asked to read. Maybe next year you can give extra credit in the very beginning

to anyone who chooses to attempt it, even if they just did a few. As far as the quantity of work

pertaining to the discussions, this was a comfortable amount to work on. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 I live for feedback and have come to realize it has become of great importance to me since I have

gone back to school. It is helpful to know why I got a 7 verus a 5. I fully realize the amount of

students that you have and feedback on all would be very time consuming, but even something

brief would be appreciated. I did receive minor feedback on my Egoism essay (most was negative)

but I was still excited to see some!  

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

I can not think of anything, other than responding to me in my private folder once in a while..maybe you did not see my postings as questions, other than just comments, but as you now know, I love feedback.(does that really make me egotistical??)

You clearly explain what will be expected of us in this class. Anyone who says differently is not

clearly reading through everything and participating as often as they should. When I started this

class, I could not see how I was possibly going to pull off an "A", but one thing I would tell other

students is that with hard work and devotion, it is definitely a good possibility to do so. I will admit,

that after much complaining to my husband and friends- this is an awesome class, and although I

am now looking forward to relaxing and sleeping past 6 a.m., I will absolutely miss the interaction

and the discussions from this class!!! Thank You!!!

 SP

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 what I liked best what that I get to do my work any time of the day, and create assignments, doing an online course is actually cool. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 The discussion questions should be easier to answer for people to express their opinions instead of getting negative feedback. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 Well at first I didn't know that you get points for joining the discussion questions, because in a regular class i dont always join in. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

It was all too quick for me but for the dicussion questions we had enouigh time, and also for the papers, but not for the 2 of them that we had back to back.

 Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 I dont think that there should have been 2 papers for those two weeks in  a row, because it was too much to write and think about, I think one topic and one paper is sufficient. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 The course was fine, exept if you don't know alot about philosophy it is going to be hard, and it is tough to read all those chapters in the book in such a short time. 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

RA

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 that it was basically on my time. i also found it interesting because it had a lot of free form discussion to it. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 i think everything is done very well. perhaps 1 meeting per course. to catch up and actually see the faces of those enrolled. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 1 class meeting and/or an im chat session for all. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

everything was done well. i cannot think of one single thing besides those already mentioned that i would change. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 i think that perhaps multiple choice could be incorporated with the essay format. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 i cannot think of one thing. perhaps post the grades on the day you always say you will. haha 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

VW

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 I liked the fact that we were able to join technology and learning together.  The interaction on line was interesting and I believe that soon most classes will take place in the same manner as this one.   

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 At first I had a very difficult time understanding how exactly the course workeed.  Perhaps if there were detailed instructions it would be easier to grasp.  I started the course nervous and found myself intimidated by the new approach to learning.  

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 Perhaps discuss more current issues and tie it in with the topics.  I liked the fact that we were able to discuss things like smoking etc.  It made the material more tangible. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

Actually, I found this part to be very accomodating. For the most part I believe that the due dates were well structured. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 The quantity was fine, however, module 2 needs improvement.  It was a difficult section and I still do not have a complete understanding of it.  

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 Maybe a few more responses.  I appreciated your replys and questions.  I felt as if they made me think more and understand the material better.   

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

IL

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 i liked that we could be honest on open. also there was alot of info that was very interesting. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 better explaining on the essay questions. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 i found it hard to participate because i hate the computer. and every thing i wanted to say was already said.

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

i thought all the daTES WERE DOABLE. ALL AND ALL EVERYTHING RAN SMOOTHLY 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 I BELIEVE THE QUANTITY WAS JUST FINE. I KNEW IT WAS A SUMMER CLASS WHICH WOULD MOVE FAST. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 INTERACTION AND PARTICIPATION WAS ALITTLE HARD BECAUSE THE CLASS WAS SO LARGE. MAYBE IF YOU HAD SPLIT THE CLASS IT WOULD OF BEEN EASIER. MANAGEMENT WAS OK, BUT BETTER EXPLANTIONS ON THE ESSAYS WOULD BE BETTER. 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

WELL I REALLY LEARNED ALOT MORE THAN I THOUGHT. AND I AM VERY GRATEFUL TO HAVE TAKEN THIS CLASS WITH YOU. THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HELP. BUT TRY TO GIVE BETTER EXPLANTIONS ON THE ESSAYS. O' DON'T GRADE SO HARD! AGAIN THANKS!~

 EW

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 I liked the discussions of this course the best.  I tend to be shy in a classroom setting.  I never really raise my hand and talk about issues.  I feel that with the discussions, I had a chance to voice my opinions, beliefs, anad facts.  People actually read my thoughts and reacted to them, and this I enjoyed.   

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 I bleieve the course was well stuctured and well designed.  I was happy with the way it was run and followed it well.  To improve the learning activities, maybe more interactive site could be made.  For example, maybe like a hands on learning assigment that required us to use philosophy in our real lives.  Or maybe a practice quiz on the computer just to make sure we were understanding the information.   

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 Maybe I would make it mandatory for every person to take part in the discussions.  At times I feel that it was the same people all the time taking part in the discussions and the same people responding to them.  Making it mandatory would enable me to interact more with others. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

I beleive that the pacing and sequence of the course was organized well.  The way you organized the course and its materials made it easy to follow along.  The times though when the discussions were only open for a day or two was often difficult for me.  If I missed a day I felt that I fell behind in these situations.  If the discussions were open for a full seven days (like the rest of the module was), I may have found this better. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 I think that the quantity of work required for this course was doable.  It required a lot of keeping on top of things, but I think it took a whole lot less time than taking the classroom course.  By driving to the course, the actaul classroom time, and the homework time, it would be a whole lot more time than the online course. The work may have seemed overwhelming at times, but to think of taking the classroom course, I think that that would have been a lot more overwhelming than distance learning.  To look at the amount of work we were to do at the beginning of the course could have been a little overwhelming, but the way you organized the map and the modules made it a whole lot easier to enable me to pace myself and to keep up with the work.    

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 It seemed to me like you interacted often.  You seemed to enter the course once a day, if not several times a day.  You were prompt in responding to questions.  I like how when we recieved back our assignments, you evaluted them and let us know what we were missing.  I also liked the fact that if we desired, we could resubmit our assignemnts to you.  There was one time though, when I asked a question, and although you answered it, it was not a very clear answer.   

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

PG

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 I liked the fact that I could participate more freely.  In a classroom I tend to be a little shy.  I liked getting other opinions on certain subjects and I liked the fact that many of the questions entitled me to think a little deeper than usual.  I take many things at face value and it was a new experience to actually understand the reason I feel the way I do about certain things.  

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 I think the class went pretty well as it is.  Off hand I can not think of any improvements other than gettin students to stick the point of hand.  I think that students should be made to answer questions possed by other students.  I noticed that if a question was to hard or proved a point to contradict themselves they simply did not answer. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 The same answer as above applies here also.  Student should be made to answer all questions posed to them to make them think a little harder. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

The sequence was very wonderful I feel it can't be in a better sequence because one thing led to another.  The pacing was also very doable.  I liked that the questions were seperated by two days here and then two days for the next question in the same module.  It made it very easy to concentrate on those questions in particular and not feel overwhelmed.  However I also enjoyed the flexibility of having the whole week to answer questions it allowed me to go at my own pace.  In summation it was a nice mix of both. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 I really have nothing to compare it to because it was a shortend semester.  I didn't like the papers every week but they did help reinforce as well as understand each topic more fully. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 Make a point to get students to answer questions posed to them providing they are relevant.  Point out more so what is relevant to the question as well as the question posed to the students.  There were some answers to questions that were so completley off the topic I don't know where they came from yet I didn't want to not answer them.  I suppose this reflects on grading but I feel it would help other students as well. 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

Overall your participation was a good medium of letting people explore subjects yet keeping us in line.  I feel you "picked" on people fairly andf the way you did it got people to think a little harder.  I have really enjoyed this class and I regret the fact I took it on line.  Ithink I would have preferred a 15 week semester with the classroom interactio nwith this class in particular.

AD

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 What I liked best about this course was that there was a routine. You would read the chapter or chapters, answer the discussion questions and do a written assignment. It was easy to keep up because you pretty much knew what was expected of you. I liked that in the discussions everyone was able to speak freely and that many people responded to what they were saying.  

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 Some of the chapters were extremely long and it was hard to keep up and undersstand everything being stated in the chapter because there was so much information. I think that maybe an outline of main points could possibly help students in the future.

Our class was also very large and if you were not online constantly keeping up with the postings it was difficult to find the time to read everyone's response in the class and be able to respond to them. I think the idea you suggested in the beginning of the term about splitting the class up would have aided in more people being able to respond to others because there would have been less posts to go through and more time to be involved. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 I think to add to the quality people must fully understand what they are reading and that could be helped by providing an outline of the chapter, key points to be focused on. I also feel that I would have been able to participate more in the discussions/interactions if there were fewer postings to read. I got so lost in so many responses it was difficult to respond because all I kept doing was reading.

Many of the discussion questions asked us to choose a side, however, many of the things we read about and discused I had never thought about before and although it made me question what I already believed in, it was still difficult for me to chose one distinct side and argue it.

This is a difficult course and it is suppose to challenge you to think and even though what I've suggested may help I feel it may also take away from the course. So I think that the only way that may improve the quality and participation in course discussion/interactions may be just to have fewer discussion questions which allow for more time to really consider an answer to the questions.

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

I think the pacing of this course worked out well. It seemed that we did a module each week where everything pretty much ended up due on a Sunday and I think that worked out for me. I took another online course this semester and things were due every two or three days and that was very difficult. Everything was sequenced well, we read the chapters and then did the discussions questions which pretty much reinforced the chapters and finally the written assignment. I feel the system worked out well and I don't think anything needs to be changed.

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 The only time I had trouble with quantity was when there was more than one essay due. The essays were really involved and I had difficulty when there was two of them due at the same time. Maybe one could have been done earlier in the week and the other later in the week. That is only change I feel could be made in the quantity of work. Everything else was expected, the reading and discussions, both of which are needed for this class. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 I think you interacted and responded more than I had expected you to. You were constantly involved in all discussions and you interacted with everyone. I don;t think that you need to change anything. 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

CB

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 What I liked best about this course was that it made us really sit and think. Many of us had our beliefs tested and questioned and left us wondering if what we once believed in is what we still believe in. I think it did a great job of opening up our minds. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 I think that with the reading the links could maybe be summarized or maybe even cut down. many of the links that were mandatory to read we were not able to access. So I think links really need to be changed to suit the student. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 I actually think the class did a really good job with participation and interactions. I thihnk the fact that there were study groups was great. So not only were people discussing and interacting within the modules but outside the class as well. I think that in future classes if less people participate maybe grading a little harder would be better. Every time I received full points for discussion and many times I only answered two out of four questions and other  times I answered them all. Or maybe give extra credit to those who do answer and participate in all the discussion questions. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

I think that the due dates were fine. It gave us a whole week to to read and prepare a paper. In many of my other college classes we are given two days to do that. So I think the time was great.  The materials were also sequenced well. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 I think that maybe a little less reading and more interaction would be better. It is good to learn and know the facts but I think that many times the readings didn't effect what people thought and they were just arguing their previous thoughts. So I think that with more interaction people will be able to open their minds better, and see that there are other sides to issues. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 I think you could interact a little more at the begining than what you did. Towards the end you really started to interact and give us feed back and I think it is necesary to do that in the begining as well as in the end. The only other thing was I left a few notes in the private folder and it took a while to get back to me on them.  

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

LB

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 The part that I liked best about this course was the discussion portion of each topic.  Unlike other online courses that I have taken, with the topic of Philiosophy there is no one absolute right or wrong answer. I enjoyed being given the opportunity to be questioned and question others into truly thinking about the position.  I also enjoyed seeing other views on subjects that we usually take for granted, accept because we are told so or never question the why. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 The specific thing that I think could improve the structure or design of the course and learning activities is that when there are some many people participating in the discussions that they should be divived in to two differnt discussionm groups.  To try to read and respond to as many entries as possible is very time consuming and a lot of what you might want to say or comment about have already been posted.  It was kind of like a race to be the first to get your response in.  This may be why there were so many who had only one or two entries and/or responses. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 I would improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions by pharasing the questions in more "layman" terms.  I think that there were too many questions on what exactly you were looking for.  Also by splitting the groups, the discussions would not be dominated by the same group of students.  If it was divided maybe those who hardly participated would feel more comfortable in doing so. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

Considering that this course was given during the summer session with a limited time frame, I feel that the pacing and sequence of the class were for the most part doable. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 I felt that the work required for this course, at times, felt alittle overwhelming. Since most of the students who take these types of courses to enhance their education are older with families and jobs it can be alittle much.  But again since this was a summer course it is to be expected. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 For the most part, the coutse is well managed.  I would have liked to have seen more participation by you in the manner of your view on the various topics.  Also as times I wasn't sure if I was understanding you or the material correctly and your responses were too vague or "wordy".  I understand that this is a college course but there were times I (and others that I had spoken to) really didn't understand what you wanted or were trying to explain. 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

JM

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 I really liked all the information I learned.  It was good to look at different things and beliefs.  Otherwise we have a tendency to just keep accepting things as they are and never questioning.  I feel that the responses in the discussion area are great.  I am typically a very quite person in a classroom setting.  I feel that this allowed me to voice my opinion more than I would have if we were in a tradional classroom setting. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 Perhaps summerizing some of the web links.  A few were really long and sometimes hard to grasp, at least for me.  Some theories were hard to understand, therefore if you made a summary it might be a little easier to understand.  Perhaps because of the time frams of this semester I had to try to read fast in order to keep up with the class, so I was not really able to reread the material to get a really good understanding of it or fully comperhend it.  Give the students the link you want them to read, but include in the text a summary of it as well. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 Perhaps breaking it down a little more.  The questions were extremely thought provoking but at times there were too many to get to.  You try to answer the questions themselves and then the other peoles responses, it became a bit overwhelming.  I feel that if in the beginning of the class you see that you have a lot of people you should breakdown the class accordingly.  As the semester goes on and people drop out etc, then conbine them again to make it just one discussion area for all the students.  This might make it more manageable for not only the students but for you as well. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

I feel that for the most part the due date were definetly doable.  Things get a bit hectic in life sometimes which makes it difficult to follow the giudelines, however I feel that you were more than fair in these situations.  I feel that the course was sequenced well, it seemed that each chapter flowed into the next.  There seemed to be a link between each and as you went throught the chapters, perhaps what you didn't understand iin the module before it became a little clearer as you went throught the next. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 The quantity of work was to be expected, especially in an intersession course.  Things are more condensed as there is a lot less time to cover the material.  Perhaps a few less links to read or just one semi long one to cover the material.  You should still offer the additional links as you have done here but make all of them optional to read.  Sometimes it seemed there were a lot of links to go to and read, so maybe just picking one that covered all the material you want the student to learn would make it much easier. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 I feel taht you participated as much as was really necessary.  You intervened when we went off the track some and pointed up back in the right direction.  You helped when you put your responses explaining some of theories.  Some of them can get a bit confusing. 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

CF

Part 1: What did you like best about this course?

 this class deals with many interesting philosophical issues. many related to our everyday life, for example, religion, mind and body problem, government, etc.. After taking this class, I have a much better sense about how other people think about God, free-will, and the existence of the soul. It was a loot of work, but the online discussions helped me to understand the course materials and the written assignments.I think having the lecture materials linked to other websites also worked out really well. The professor was great at answering questions. on top of every thing, this class really got my mind working.

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 There could be some encouragment after Module two, the ancient philosophy. I know we are not in kindergarden anymore and we should be able to take whatever comes our way. but in Orientation and Mod One, all we had to do was answer few simple serveys. i was totally shocked when i saw all the readings and the topic of the assignment in Mod 2. It is just my own opinion, but i think maybe i would be less discouraged if the course taking its depth graduatly. so we know what's await us. but i do understand it is a summer course, it's unavoidable to have intensive course works.  

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 Many students have proposed online instant messaging. I also think it would be a good idea. because many times, when i find a person's discussion questionable, and after i post my response, it would be few days after to get a reply from the person. so i think if we have a certain hour (like in the evenings) that everyone can join a group net-meeting. we can get responses and ask questions more efficiently.  

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

This course required a lot of reading and writing. I liked the way that due dates always fall on Sunday nights, since that allowed us more time to finish the assignments over the weekends. I liked the way the course materials were sequenced. we started talking about issues in ancient ages, and ending up thinking about many current events in our society and government actions. I can't think of any other way that's better than the way it is now.  

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 Being honest, the amount of reading and writing required were overwheelming to me, especially I major in Finance and Math. but nobody said philohophy was easy. now looking back, i learned a lot from the course. It was my first time taking the online course, and it was much harder than what other people told me about online courses. i wish i took more time out for this course than i have.  

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 Many times I found the reading (for me)was very difficult to understand, because it contain a lot of philosophical terms. because the course was also have a lot of readings and contributing responses, more encouragement would definetly be very helpful. It would be more helpful if the professor could put more explaination into each text, like in everyday language as if we were listening in a class room. So some of us, who have never taken a philosophy course, wouldn't be lost in the readings.   

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

As far as what worked best, I would have to say it was the openness in discussion and ability to post respopnses within some specified time period. This gave us time to think about the topic and acquire more information.  and talk about some issues that seem to stack up before us as well as new topics which overwhelm our everyday life concerns.

LG

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 I enjoyed the topic and class material the best.  I think the topic was fascinating.  It made me stop and question not only the various topics that we were discussing on line but also other areas and avenues in my own life.   

I think the course began to show us a better, more advanced way to think.  Although we follow logical steps to find a solution to a math test question, very few of us follow such discipline in our own thinking.  I found this to be the most valuable skill that I acquired in this class.  I know I will never look at things in quite the same fashion as I did before I started this class. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 I think the class structure is wonderful in that it affords so many of us to accomplish this class in a less rigid, traditional manner.  However, because the schedule tries to accommodate so many different schedules, I felt like I was always trying to catch up.  I felt that way even when I was on schedule according to the schedule given.  Many students went way ahead.  I was taking two additional classes concurrently, so although I would have liked to rush ahead and join them, I could not.  I found it very helpful when discussions were limited to certain parts of the reading and could be answered after reading those portions and had half week timeframes to participate. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 I do not know that you really could improve the quality.  To be perfectly honest, the quality and participation were aspects of this class that were pleasant surprises to me.  I truly felt like I was a member of a class.  There were students that I looked forward to hearing their comments on certain issues.  As in any class, there were also those "other students."  Even those students that did not participate often were similar to a traditional classroom where not everyone participates to the same degree. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

To be perfectly honest with you, I have been a student at Suffolk since Spring of 2001.  I started with zero credits, and I am  now completing my last two classes for my A.S., Acctg. -- this class and a traditional summer class in Statistics.  So far,  I have gotten all "A's" and have graduated from the Honors Program, a difficult accomplishment for an Acctg. major. (My point in stating this is to let you know that I am a very serious and conscientious student.) In any event, I think this was one of the most difficult and time consuming classes I have taken so far.  I truly worried about my grade in this class, and I was truly concerned that I would "blow" my perfect 4.0 with this course. Last semester I took 20 credits (one Acctg. class was independent study and three classes were Honors), and I don't think I felt the same pressure to accomplish work that I did in this class. 

As far as suggestions, I don't have any.  You warned us over and over about the work load -- and you were right!  You were more than fair with us.  The material was sequence well, etc. -- It's just a lot of work.  It's a lot to think about.  It was a lot to read.  Discussions took a great deal of time, all of which were totally necessary and could not be eliminated.   

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 I wish I could say to eliminate some of the work, as I have answered above it is truly overwhelming.  However, I do not think any of the work can be eliminated without sacrificing the quality of the Course.  (Future students may hate me, but I say keep it all!) 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 There were times that I wanted (and I think so did other classmates) your opinion. We wanted an answer; and we wanted it NOW! I now realize that your doing this would have defeated the purpose.  We were to continue our dialogues and hopefully challenge each other to get each other to think and question.  I get it now, but I didn't then.  I also was taken aback by your "Jump Out of a Window" comment.  However, as the class continued, I realized that you had to be dramatic to make your point -- and you were -- and you did!  I know when I came to you for help, you couldn't have been kinder or more generous in your support. I appreciate it.   

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

I have to compliment you.  I think we were challenged.  I think we are all walking away with insight that we didn't have before.  Although none of us may be walking away with our "answers", we are walking away with something much more valuable -- we are learning how to think analytically!  I know this will be an important skill for me, and I am sure so many others feel the same way. 

KL

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 I like the disucussions.  I get to listen to other people's thoughts and reasoning. 

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 I think the course is ideal.  It worked very well. I have no suggestions as of now. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 I think the students develop their own quality in the work.  If the question responses are moving slowly, the professor can throw in a question to think about that will get more of a response.  I think the discussions already work perfectly.  Having students be REQUIRED to respond when they personally have been adressed may force more thinking and applicatoin which would be good. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

The due dates were definetly doable.  They were scheduled well.  Yes, it was sequenced well. The only trouble I had was with the required reading for the history in chapter 2. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 The quantity of work is good too. I tis definetly not too little, it is a little much.  It also depeneds on the student's personal schedule for that week. 

Part 6:  How could the course be improved in terms of my interaction, participation, and management of the course? 

 You perticipate at just the right times.  You add your input when it is needed or helpful. My only concern would be responses are sometimes fluctuating-you can tell when you have just been online - and you can tell when you have no signed on in say, 2 days. 

Part 7:  What other suggestions, comments, or recommendations would you have for the instructor? 

Thank you for a learning experience.  I love the idea of the online text.

AL

Part 1: What did you like best about this course? 

 The thing that I liked the best about this course was that all of us were able to interact with one another and state our own opinions about certain topics. Even if someone didn?t like what he or she read, they responded with respect.  No one was rude or mean, we all respected each other?s beliefs on certain topics and I thought that was great.   

Part 2: What specific things do you think could be improved in the structure or design of the course and learning activities? 

 I think that the structure of the course and the learning activities were fine and that they were designed very well. 

Part 3: How would you improve the quality and participation in course discussions/interactions? 

 I would improve the quality and participation in the course discussions/interactions, by when a discussion is over on July 21, 2002.  I would make it so that you are able to discuss up until 12pm midnight just like it was done for each and every module.  I would come on someitmes and the discussion would be closed already, I didn't think that was fair.  I think that would improve the discussions/interactions. 

Part  4:   What changes would you suggest be made to the pacing or sequence of the content and activities for this course? (e.g., were the due dates doable for you? Were the course materials sequenced well?) 

I will state again how I feel with the discussions, I think that you should be able to write on them until 12pm midnight the day they are due.  I also think their should be a day in between every module, even if it makes the course a couple of days longer, it helps people have some sort of break from the constant work.  I will  admit I had some trouble with some due dates because of things that came up in life that you cannot stop but most of them were ok.  I thought the course materials were sequenced well. 

Part 5:  What changes would you suggest be made to the quantity of work required for this course? 

 I think that the amount of work was ok and certain modules, btu then some of them had two written assignments and that was a little bit difficult.  I think that if