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Summer School
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Critical Thinking in the Age of AI

Your way to academic excellence.
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duration
language
location
intake
Format
FOR WHO
2 weeks
English
Madrid
15th - 26th of June, 2026
In-person
Undergraduate students & young professionals

Sharper Thinking and Stronger Persuasion

In a world where information is instant and AI can generate answers in seconds, the real advantage lies in how you think. This program is designed to strengthen your ability to analyze, question, and construct arguments with clarity and confidence. 

Over ten intensive days, you will move beyond passive learning and actively develop the skills to think critically, challege assumptions, and communicate ideas persuasively - both independently and under pressure. From debating real-world issues to defending your reasoning in front of experts, you will build a mindset that sets you apart academically and professionally. 

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Days to start your best summer

09days
:
15hours
:
31minutes

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM DESIGNED FOR?

  • This program is right for you if…

    ...you want to future proof your academic and professional path by mastering the skills that truly differentiate you: clear thinking, strong arguments, and persuasive communication.

  • Participant profile

    Undergraduate students and young professionals from any academic background who are eager to strengthen critical thinking, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and persuasive communication in the context of emerging technologies and AI enhanced learning environments.

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Focus Areas

Build the core human capabilities that complement AI, with practical training in four key areas essential for navigating the future of work.

  • 01.

    Structured Critical Thinking

    Learn how to build, break down, and refine arguments using proven frameworks, developing clarity and precision in your reasoning. 

  • 02.

    Bias, Logic & Decision-Making

    Identify cognitive biases and logical fallacies - in yourself, others, and AI - and learn how to challenge them effectively.

  • 03.

    Persuasion & Communication Under Pressure

    Develop the ability to defend ideas, influence audiences, and communicate persuasively in debates, presentations, and high-stakes scenarios. 

  • 04.

    AI as a Thinking Partner

    Understand how to critically engage with AI tools - interrogating outputs, validating information, and using AI to enhance (not replace) your thinking. 

    Study Plan

    ​Program Structure

    This agenda is subject to change.

    What You're going to do
    2 Weeks | 40 Hours | 3 ECTS
    Week 1
      Week 2
        Final Project
          What You're going to do
          2 Weeks | 40 Hours | 3 ECTS
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          CREDIT RECOGNITION

          If you join IE University’s Summer Program for a two week module and opt in to the additional academic deliverable, you will receive a Certificate of Achievement indicating an academic workload equivalence of 3 ECTS credits.

          Completing two modules with the deliverable corresponds to 6 ECTS, and three modules to 9 ECTS.

          To qualify for credit recognition, you must fulfill all course requirements and submit the additional deliverable within two weeks of finishing your last module. Recognition of credits is always determined by your home institution.

          Your first look at the program

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          Unique Value

          A fully immersive, hands-on experience where you actively debate, simulate real-world scenarios, and defend your thinkinh in front of experts - building critical skills that go far beyond traditional classroom learning. 

          Learning Outcome

          Develop the ability to construct strong arguments, challenge biases, and communicate persuasively under pressure, while using AI as a tool to better - not replace - your thinking. 

          Course Overview  

          Typical Day in The Critical Thinking in the Age of AI

          We’ve structured your day-to-day to sharpen your skills and bring out your best ideas. Designed for an engaging and hands-on experience, here’s what a typical day in the Critical Thinking in the Age of AI program looks like:

          Week 1:

          Monday to Friday:

          • 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Classes.
          • Afternoon: Optional cultural activities. 

          Week 2

          Monday to Thursday:

          •  9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  | Classes.
          •  Afternoon: Optional cultural activities.

          Friday:

          • The last day is dedicated to reflection, group project presentations and a fun graduation ceremony.
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          Discover the summer calendar

          Explore the full Univeristy Summer Programs calendar to discover all available courses and dates.

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          Our Faculty

          Alistair Fildes | IE

          OUR PROGRAM LEAD FACULTY

          Alistair Fildes – Associate Dean at IE University

          • Vice Dean for Behavioral Science, leads IE’s BBSS program
          • PhD in Behavior and Organizational Change
          • Award winning research on public confidence in policing
          • Global behavior change leader across public and private sectors
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          Student Experience

          Admissions

          Our admissions process is simple and designed to understand your motivation and goals. Apply online and receive a decision within approximately two weeks.

          We recommend applying early, as places are limited.

          Abstract for Tuition | IE

          TUITION

          2 WEEK PROGRAM

          • *3,500€
          • 5,900€ Bundle Price (2 weeks + 2 weeks)

          THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS

          1
          Online Application
          2
          Submit your Application
          3
          Admissions Final Decision

          Online Application

          You will need to complete the online application with the following documents:

          1. Academic transcripts.
          2. CV (cv template).
          3. Video Assessment: in this section you will complete two live video questions on general knowledge topics.

          *You must complete all sections of the application in order to submit it.

          1/3
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          FIND YOUR IDEAL PROGRAM

          With flexible programs, you can mix and match the topics that interest you the most, giving you a taste of your future degree or career. Each program lasts two weeks and you can combine up to three programs to create a very personal learning journey.​

            From Summer to Your Future at IE. 

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              FAQ's

              • Because while AI can generate information, it cannot evaluate truth, build arguments, or challenge assumptions. This program focuses on the skills that remain uniquely human—critical thinking, reasoning, and decision-making—which are increasingly valued by employers.

              • You will practice the exact skills used in high-level recruitment processes, including structured argumentation, case analysis, and defending your ideas under pressure—similar to consulting interviews at firms like McKinsey or BCG.

              • This is a fully immersive, practice-based experience. You will debate, write under pressure without AI, simulate real interviews, and present to a live panel—proving your ability to think, not just understand concepts.