The Department of Philosophy (Head: Prof. Cho Yoon-ho) invited Prof. Kim Young-jung (Dept. of Philosophy, Seoul National University) as a guest speaker. Prof. Kim delivered a lecture under the topic of \"Logic, Essay Writing and PSAT\" at the small auditorium of Humanities Bldg. on December 2. The lecture, hosted by the Dept. of Philosophy and Research & Education Center of Philosophy, was a great success with over 300 students attending, although the lecture was held during the period of final term exams. Many students have shown their great interests in governmental evaluation system including
Public Service Aptitude Test (PSAT).
Prof. Kim emphasized the importance of logical thoughts, critical outlook, and creative thoughts in his lecture. He explained how the philosophical education is related with thinking ability enhancement. According to Prof. Kim, recognized as an expert of PSAT, the first round of the current civil service entrance exam is mainly focused on testing the applicants
basic knowledge of each exam subject. The revised one will pay more attention to applicants
aptitude for their hoped-for jobs. Consequently, the previously subject-based exam will gradually be substituted by a new system focused on other capacities. Besides, the conventional boundaries of traditional academic curricula, the basic competencies of each examinee, such as basic linguistic competency, numerical and statistical competency and problem-solving competency etc., will be considered to be more meaningful in evaluation. The PSAT consists of three parts: the Linguistic and Logical Ability Test (LLAT), the Data Interpretation Ability Test (DIAT) and Circumstantial Judgment Ability Test (CJAT). The LLAT assesses basic linguistic competencies such as forming a complete sentence, understanding and being understood by others, logical thinking, expressing their idea clearly and effectively, and reasoning. The DIAT evaluates each applicant
s ability to use basic statistic skills and to interpret the results. Also the ability to adjust and analyze numerical data, the ability to utilize the information technology and the ability to keep up with the most recent information are also assessed. Lastly the CJAT checks deductive reasoning, analysis competency, problem-solving ability, judgment and decision-making ability, etc. The PSAT was first introduced for the Senior Foreign Service Entrance Exam this year. By the year 2006, the PSAT will be used for all of the senior service entrance exams.