A component of NTID’s Career Exploration Studies program, this course sharpens students' ability to think clearly, logically and creatively and to communicate knowledge effectively in an academic setting. To support their entry into college and their search for an academic program, students will learn critical thinking strategies for examining issues and solving problems. Course topics include solving problems using a problem solving process model; exploring problem solving tools and strategies using campus resources, professional and proactive communication behaviors and personal attributes for success; and applying knowledge of students’ rights and responsibilities to facilitate effective problem solving for academic and personal/social problems. The importance of thinking critically across various communication contexts (i.e., face-to-face interactions, written correspondence, group discussions, and presentations) will be stressed.

Internet and social media platforms have led to an information-saturated digital world in which it can be difficult to know what is true, trustworthy, and worth resharing. This course will help students become Well-informed, Independent, Strategic, and Ethical (W.I.S.E.) consumers of digital information. Digital literacy skills such as information literacy, digital citizenship, and the importance of cultivating a positive and professional online presence (digital footprint) will be discussed. Students will develop analytical skills as news consumers and practice strategies for communicating responsibly and ethically across social media platforms. Students will learn how to evaluate the credibility of sources using fact-checking strategies and engage in ethical decision making to manage misinformation and disinformation. Invited guest lecturers will expand upon topics unique to D/deaf consumers.