PHILOSOPHY Course
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Understanding the relations between ideas: how one idea can imply another or contradict it.
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The ability to spot flaws in arguments.
Exam Board
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The ability to argue.
AQA specification
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Imagination: coming up with novel solutions and novel ideas.
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Communication and conversation: philosophy is done through discussion and debate.
A level Philosophy (Online)
Entry requirements Maths & English Level 6. Grade 6 or higher in a humanity subject.
Am I suitable to study a course online?
Why study Philosophy? Philosophy is an activity people undertake when they seek to understand themselves, the world they live in, and their relations to the world and each other. Those who study philosophy are engaged in asking, answering, evaluating, and reasoning about some of life’s most basic, meaningful, and difficult questions. ● ● ●
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What is it to be a human? What is the human mind? Are we responsible for what we do, or are we just helpless victims of our genes, environment, and upbringing? Is there a God? What is the best sort of life to live? What is happiness? Can we hope to attain it? Is it what matters most in life? Can bad people be truly happy?
In studying philosophy, you’ll have a chance to grapple with these questions yourself and to think about what others - some of the greatest philosophers of the past and present, as well as your fellow students - think about them.
What will I study? ● ●
Epistemology Metaphysics of God
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Moral philosophy Metaphysics of mind
Is philosophy a hard subject to understand? No A level is easy and Philosophy presents its own challenges. It is often a new subject for students and it can be difficult to understand the arguments and the ideas. When you do anything that is difficult, you develop new skills that make it easier with practise. Some of the skills that Philosophy can teach you are:
Online study is suitable for students who are motivated, independent and able to manage their time effectively.
How do online courses work? We provide courses in partnership with NEC (National Extension College). All course materials are expertly written and designed to guide you through the subject. Carefully selected resources will be signposted within your course. Each student is supported by a personal tutor, contactable through learn@nec and they are available whenever they are needed. Your tutor will be fully qualified to teach, an expert in their subject and with you every step of the way. You can work through the course at your own pace. You’ll complete assignments and upload them to learn@nec for your tutor to mark. Your tutor will then upload their feedback for you to read. Through learn@nec you’ll also be able to interact with other students in the course forums. Interacting with your peers is a great way of discussing what you’re learning and helping you to really understand and deepen your understanding.
Assessment All exams are sat at school in the usual manner. Philosophy is assessed through two three hour exams. Each is worth 50% of the full A level.
For more information see ‘Online Courses’
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