Resources Page 41 Class Journals Journals have a long and influential tradition in philosophical writing, as illustrated by the writings of the Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius, the Christian theologian Augustine, and the Danish existentialist Soren Kierkegaard. In keeping with this tradition, in some classes you may be asked to compile a class journal. A journal is a method of thinking out loud or talking to yourself through writing. Entries express what the student has noticed, felt, thought, and experienced in a journey of self-discovery.
Entries also can carry a student deeper into the reading, to a more sophisticated understanding.
Journal writing may encompass an entire course, the reading of a text, or performing a specific course activity. Reflect on new ideas or insights that you have. Elaborate on some aspects of the course content or class discussion. Engage in a critique of reading and conversation about reading assignments. Integrate your education by making connections between your courses, and between your course and your lived experience.