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Epistemology

Selected Works

2011

Logical Argument Mapping, Argument Visualization, and Argumentation Theory

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Powerful Arguments: Logical Argument Mapping, Michael H.G. Hoffmann Jan 2011

Powerful Arguments: Logical Argument Mapping, Michael H.G. Hoffmann

Michael H.G. Hoffmann

This paper argues that deductive arguments are "powerful" when the goal is to stimulate reflection on one's own reasoning. Powerful arguments are defined as arguments that leave only one choice for a potential opponent: either to accept the conclusion or to defeat one of its premises. In the first part, the paper presents an argument for the thesis that so defined powerful arguments are possible when we do not only provide reasons as premises of an argument, but also what is called an "enabler." An "enabler" is that premise in an argument that guarantees that the reason provided in this …


Cognitive Effects Of Argument Visualization Tools, Michael H.G. Hoffmann Jan 2011

Cognitive Effects Of Argument Visualization Tools, Michael H.G. Hoffmann

Michael H.G. Hoffmann

External representations play a crucial role in learning. At the same time, cognitive load theory suggests that the possibility of learning depends on limited resources of the working memory and on cognitive load imposed by instructional design and representation tools. Both these observations motivate a critical look at Computer-Supported Argument Visualization (CSAV) tools that are supposed to facilitate learning. This paper uses cognitive load theory to compare the cognitive efficacy of RationaleTM 2 and AGORA.