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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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duration2 weeks
languageEnglish
locationMadrid
intake15th - 26th of June, 2026
FormatIn-person
FOR WHOUndergraduate students & young professionals

Sharper Thinking and Stronger Persuasion

In a world where Gen AI can summarize almost all existing knowledge in seconds, how do you stand out in the classroom or at your first job?

This two week course helps you cultivate the human strengths that technology cannot replicate: structured thinking, argumentation, and persuasive communication.

Through interactive workshops, case based learning, and practical exercises, you will learn to structure your thinking using logic and reason, construct and deconstruct arguments, and deliver your ideas persuasively. You will also learn how to use Gen AI tools appropriately to support your thinking rather than replace it.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Days to start your best summer

27days
:
19hours
:
21minutes

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 Thinking and Logic

    You will learn to structure your thinking using logic and reasoning, identify common errors, and apply formal and informal methods to analyze problems and develop stronger ideas.

  • 02.

    Argumentation and Debate

    You will build the ability to construct and deconstruct arguments, evaluate different perspectives, participate effectively in debates, and strengthen both written and oral argumentation.

  • 03.

    Cognitive Biases and Decision Making

    You will explore how cognitive biases work, how they influence judgment and persuasion, and how to recognize them to improve the quality of your reasoning.

  • 04.

    Persuasive Communication and Influence

    You will practice communicating ideas clearly and persuasively, using ethos, logos, and pathos ethically, and adapting your message to different audiences and contexts, including the final presentation.

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
      What You're going to do
      2 Weeks | 40 Hours | 3 ECTS

      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

      You will not only learn how to use logic and evidence to support your ideas, but also how to influence others ethically, identify biases, and communicate under pressure in both academic and professional settings.

      Learning Outcome

      By the end of the program, you will be able to structure your thinking with logic, build and challenge arguments, recognize cognitive biases, and communicate your ideas clearly and persuasively in academic discussions and presentations.

      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

      *Early bird

      •  Before March 27th, 2026

      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.​

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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.