Skip to main content

The Toulmin Method

 

What is the Toulmin Method?

The Toulmin method is a six-step method used to analyze arguments and create persuasive comments. The steps include claim, data, warrant, backing qualifier and rebuttal.
 
The Steps: 
 
1. Claim: a claim is a statement or a point that the writer wants to argue. In online communications this can even be opinionated statements. 
2. Data: Data, or grounds as the diagram above shows, is the evidence or factual backing the supports the claim. Using credible research here is key. 
3. Warrant: This connects the researched data and the claim, meaning it is used as further evidence. 
4. Backing: Backing is further evidence to support the warrant, online communications may use reports or studies to back their warrant. 
5. Qualifier: The qualifier is used to narrow the scope of claim. They make the argument more precise. 
6. Rebuttal: The rebuttal showcases the other side of the argument. They allow readers to hear the opinions and facts of those not in support of the claim. 


Use in Online Communications: 

This method can be extremely helpful to online communications as they allow writers to easily support and back their claims. Writer and authors can easily use hyperlinks, graphs, and citations from other online sources as evidence. They can also easily find rebuttals and engage in educated debates this way. 

The Challenges to Consider:

- Information Overload: There is a lot of information and opinions on the internet that can clutter a person's mind. Critical thinking is necessary here. 
- Emotions: Keeping biases out of research can be difficult, writers must be able to keep their personal emotions out of the way of their argument's credibility. 
- Echo Chambers: To avoid largely agenda-based communities on the internet, diversify your search to find multiple points and voices.

If you would like to learn more about the Toulmin Method, you can visit: Toulmin Argument - Purdue OWL® - Purdue University



Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Kimes Ranch

Identity   Kimes Ranch is a Texas based western brand which sells a variety of clothing products. In recent years the company has gained a lot of followers and is a top brand in the western world. The company has done well at establishing a known identity, the longhorn logo is commonly known, the longhorn accentuates the style and propose behind the company's products. It is because of this, as well as high quality materials, that Kimes Ranch has gained a large western follower base. Could this have something to do with their online presence? Let's investigate.  Online Presence and Communication Website: Kimes Ranch does a very good job communicating with its followers and customers through their website. Main features such as sales, company updates, or new/seasonal clothing are on the top of the main page. They do this to draw attention to trending items or exciting deals which encourage shoppers to purchase more goods. Right now, Kimes Ranch is showcasing their Spring Sale....
Post a Comment
Read more

Social Semiotics

  Social Semiotics What, Who, and Why? Discovered by Ferdinand de Saussure, social semiotics is the exploration and discovery the ways humans attach meaning to specific social practices and systems.  Semiotic methodology identifies the meaning represented in messages with and without a language aspect, including signs, symbols, sculptures, art/imagery, messages, many more communicative forms (Mingers and Willcocks, 2017). Semiotics aim to look deeper than language, interpreting meaning beyond it. This type of understanding is important to the interpretation of human insights. Cultural and societal context is expressed through gestures, actions, and imagery and differs across the globe. Visuals are impactful on societies, students, audiences and can be used to help in learning, advertising, and propaganda.  The Rules There are rules that apply to this methodology. There are two parts to a sign: signifier and signified . The signifier is the physical representation prese...
Post a Comment
Read more