IGCSE Global Perspectives 0457 - Research, Analysis and Evaluation

Objective: Identify and Analyse Issues, Arguments and Perspectives

This section focuses on developing your ability to critically examine global issues, understand the different arguments surrounding them, and consider various perspectives. It involves skills in research, analysis, and evaluation.

1. Identifying Issues

The first step is to identify a global issue. These can be broad topics like climate change, poverty, or human rights, or more specific issues within those areas.

• Examples of Global Issues: Climate change, global poverty, inequality, access to education, food security, migration, conflict, health crises, environmental pollution.
• Identifying Issues from Sources: News articles, documentaries, academic papers, personal accounts, social media.

2. Analysing Arguments

Once an issue is identified, you need to analyse the different arguments presented. This involves understanding the claims being made, the evidence used to support those claims, and the underlying assumptions.

Consider the following aspects when analysing arguments:

• Claims: What is the main point being argued?
• Evidence: What information is used to support the claim? (e.g., statistics, examples, expert opinions)
• Assumptions: What underlying beliefs or ideas are taken for granted?
• Logic: Is the argument logical and well-reasoned? Are there any fallacies?
• Bias: Does the source have any particular viewpoint that might influence the argument?

3. Considering Perspectives

Global issues rarely have simple solutions. Different people and groups have different perspectives on the issue, shaped by their experiences, values, and interests.

Consider the following perspectives:

• Cultural Perspectives: How does the issue affect different cultures and societies?
• Economic Perspectives: What are the economic implications of the issue?
• Political Perspectives: How do different governments and political systems respond to the issue?
• Ethical Perspectives: What are the moral and ethical considerations related to the issue?
• Individual Perspectives: How does the issue affect individuals' lives?

4. Evaluating Information

Evaluating information is crucial to forming your own informed opinion. This involves assessing the credibility, relevance, and reliability of different sources.

Use the following criteria to evaluate information:

Criteria	Questions to ask
Credibility	Who is the author/source? What are their qualifications? Are they reputable?
Relevance	Is the information directly related to the issue?
Reliability	Is the information accurate and supported by evidence? Can it be verified from other sources?
Bias	Does the source present a particular viewpoint? Is it objective?

5. Developing Your Own Perspective

After researching and analysing the issue, arguments, and perspectives, you should be able to develop your own informed perspective. This doesn't necessarily mean you have to agree with one particular viewpoint, but you should be able to articulate your own reasoned position, supported by evidence.

Example Scenario: Consider the issue of climate change. You might research the scientific evidence, analyse the arguments for and against government action, and consider the perspectives of different countries and communities. Based on this, you might develop a perspective on the most effective ways to address climate change.