Foreword to Students

Welcome to PIX2003 Thinking and Communication Skills.

In today’s world, knowledge alone is not enough. What truly matters is your ability to think critically, analyze information carefully, and communicate ideas clearly. These skills will influence how you learn, how you make decisions, and how you interact with others in academic, professional, and social contexts.

This course is designed to help you develop these essential abilities. Throughout the semester, you will explore how to evaluate arguments, identify assumptions, analyze evidence, and detect weaknesses in reasoning. At the same time, you will strengthen your communication skills through discussion, writing, presentations, and collaborative activities.

The goal of this course is not simply to learn theories about thinking and communication. Instead, you will practice applying these skills in real situations, including analyzing information sources, evaluating persuasive messages, solving problems creatively, and presenting ideas confidently.

By the end of the course, you should be able to:

• analyze information critically
• evaluate arguments logically
• communicate ideas clearly and confidently
• apply thinking and communication skills in academic and professional situations

I encourage you to approach this course with curiosity and an open mind. Participate actively in discussions, challenge ideas thoughtfully, and take every opportunity to develop your ability to think and communicate effectively.

These skills will not only help you succeed in your university studies but will also support your future career and personal development.

I look forward to learning together with you throughout the semester.

Best wishes for a productive and meaningful learning journey.

Dr Kenny Cheah
Course Lecturer
Faculty of Education
University of Malaya