Argumentation as as path to foster critical thinking in Legal English courses

Abstract

Learning a foreign language implies the development of a wide range of communicative skills which somehow make the individual capable of managing different daily situations in diverse foreign language contexts. However, interaction and communication aiso comprise vital processes related to critical thinking, argumentation and subsequently, problem-solving. Daily life presupposes problematic situations mainly pervaded by something beyond features such as vocabulary, pronunciation or accuracy. In regard to argumentation, Nuñez & Tellez (2012: 17) assert that "developing students' argumentative competence will enable them to become active, reflective and critical agents in the development of their societies". Thus, the innerrelationship between language learning and teaching practices, criticism, reflection and creativity arises as a must to overeóme teaching methodologies which do not derive in meaningful and lifelong learning experiences. At Universidad Santo Tomás in Víllavicencio, Colombia, argumentation in Legal Engiish courses has become a key element to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills which are aiso conceived as pillars of the See, Judge and Act Method by Saint Thomas Aquinas (Universidad Santo Tomás [USTA], 2015a). This method focuses mainly on the observation of the reality, in other words, the problematic situations, and is aimed at fostering the generation of perceptions, stances and viewpoints that could emerge from solutions to problematic scenarios. , As a result. Legal Engiish courses''áÍ|^^ likely to turn into more dynamic learning^' encounters in which students are not only devoted to improving their language skills, but aiso to appiying their legal background knowledge while they are arguing about law-related subject matters, events or issues. In this way, Engiish learning and law branches merge with the main purpose of broadening minds and educating citizens who are aware of their surrounding reality and the contributions they may have over its betterment.