Edward Deckard and Brenda Deckard. North Dakota State Univ, 1301 12th Ave N, Fargo, ND 58105
New National Research Council research on cognition, teaching, and learning further emphasizes and extends the importance of the overall learning environment consisting of integrated learner-centered, knowledge-centered, and assessment-centered components. In addition, this research reaffirms the over-arching importance of people learning from one another. The alignment of these classroom perspectives influences the degree and level of critical thinking and learning. Various definitions of critical thinking can be found, although many build the definition around solving problems. We have connected critical thinking and learning to the alignment of the classroom perspectives, as well as the engagement of small groups in real life problem-solving and decision-making. Practical strategies supported by theories, that teachers can use to develop classroom environments, assignments, and assessments that increase the degree and level of student motivation, thinking, and learning will be discussed and shared. These strategies have allowed a shift in student critical thinking that is more in line with the stated course outcomes of many university courses.
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