Mental Maps and Knowledge Claims

Read chapter 1 in your TOK book and be sure to bring your book to class, so we can have enough for a class set.  Tomorrow we will be discussing the quote "the map is not the territory" and it's meaning to you as a learner.  We will be getting a visit from Mr. Liles (A-day only) as well, so come prepared to use the time we do have as efficiently as possible.  Next up we will be exploring the nature of knowledge.  What exactly do we mean when we say we "know" something? 

Also, you can access the site with the survey we are completing for Mr. Liles here.

Myers-Briggs Personality test

Take the Myers-Briggs test here.  We will be using the results for a class discussion.  Find the detailed explanations of each personality type here.  We will be using these explanations as a basis for discussion.

Some questions we will consider are as follows:
Do you agree with the assessment of your personality type? 
Were you surprised by the results?
If you disagree with the Myers-Briggs assessment, which personality are you?
Do you think this test is an accurate measurement of personality type?
Is this method of categorization useful to understand people with different personalities?
How might this test be flawed?

Why ToK?

In order to properly answer this question, you must first understand what this class is not.  This class is not a GPA booster.  This class is not a study period.  This class is not like any class you have ever taken.  Only one thing is required of you in order to progress in this class.  The one requirement is that you think, think, and then think some more (and there will be some writing involved).  You will not benefit from this class if you are preoccupied with a grade you may or may not receive.  The grade is not the goal.  Improving the way you think is the goal.  This grade does not matter.  Only logical, thoughtful and thorough self-reflection matters.

Theory of Knowledge is often called the "glue" of the IB curriculum.  Over the next two years, you will be bombarded with vast amounts of knowledge and rigorous course standards.  The purpose of ToK is to take all of your preexisting (and newly acquired) knowledge about Mathematics, Art, Natural Sciences, Human Sciences, History, and Ethics, and question it.  Question all of it.  Question methods.  Question theories.  Question assumptions.  Question conclusions.  Question questions?  I'll stop now.  Moving on. 

Self-reflection, critical thinking, and inquiry skills are three components that a successful ToK student develops throughout this course.  Everyday we will be discussing questions that do not have a correct answer.  There will be disagreements.  This is a good thing.  In fact, it's a great thing!  Without disagreement we can not properly address the knowledge issues at hand.  Lastly, I want this class to be enjoyable!  Everyday you will have the opportunity to contribute and express your very own ideas to the class.  I expect all of you to be provide the bulk of contributions during discussion.  My main role in ToK is to facilitate your development and progression as an active learner in order to improve the way you think, not to tell you what to think.  See you in class!