AI-Assisted Dialectical Analysis Assignment

Purpose

This assignment develops students’ ability to analyze complex issues from multiple perspectives using AI as a tool for exploring and articulating different viewpoints.

Learning Outcomes

1. Generate comprehensive arguments for opposing positions on complex issues
2. Evaluate the strength and validity of different arguments
3. Identify potential biases and limitations in presented arguments
4. Synthesize multiple perspectives to develop a more complete understanding of complex topics

Instructions

Part 1: Understanding the Topic

• Review the topic provided by your instructor
• Take notes on your initial understanding and any background knowledge
• Identify key terms or concepts that need clarification

Part 2: Initial Position Analysis

1. Use an AI tool (such as Claude) to generate arguments supporting one position on the assigned topic
2. Review the AI-generated response and:
   • Identify the key arguments presented
   • Note any potential biases, limitations, or missing arguments in the response

Part 3: Counter Position Analysis

1. Use the same AI tool to generate arguments supporting the opposite position
2. Perform the same analysis as in Part 2

Part 4: Written Analysis

Required Deliverable: Analytical Essay (1,500 words)

Your essay must include the following clearly labeled sections:

1. Introduction (150 words)
   • State the topic and its significance
   • Briefly outline your approach to analyzing both positions
2. Position Analysis (400 words)
   • Present the main arguments supporting the first position
   • Include your evaluation of these arguments’ strengths and limitations
3. Counter-Position Analysis (400 words)
   • Present the main arguments supporting the opposing position
   • Include your evaluation of these arguments’ strengths and limitations
4. Comparative Analysis (300 words)
   • Compare and contrast the arguments for both positions
   • Identify any patterns, contradictions, or interesting relationships between the arguments
5. Critical Reflection (250 words)
   • Discuss how this exercise affected your understanding of the topic
   • Consider how examining opposing viewpoints influenced your perspective

Required Appendix

• Complete transcripts of your AI interactions
• Your working notes from Parts 2 and 3

Grading Criteria

Content Analysis (60%)

• Introduction: Clear presentation of topic and analytical approach (5%)
• Position Analysis: Thorough examination and evaluation of first position’s arguments (15%)
• Counter-Position Analysis: Thorough examination and evaluation of opposing position’s arguments (15%)
• Comparative Analysis: Effective comparison and contrast between positions (15%)
• Critical Reflection: Thoughtful discussion of how the analysis affected topic understanding (10%)

Documentation and Organization (30%)

• Complete documentation of AI interactions and working notes in appendix (20%)
• Clear and logical organization of ideas (10%)

Writing Quality (10%)

• Clear and professional writing style