EDTK 2030

Option 1

Critical thinking is defined by the Foundation for Critical Thinking, (2013) as a mode of thinking that allows the thinker to improve his/her quality of thinking about a subject, content or problem by taking charge of essential parts that exist in the thinking process. In other words it is self-directed, self-disciplined, self-monitored and self-corrected thinking which attempts resoning at the highest level of thinking. It entails conceptualizing, applying, analyzing and evaluating information gained from experience, observation, reasoning or communication (Foundation for critical thinking, 2013).

Analysis is the breaking down of complex topics into smaller parts in order to gain a better undersatnding of it (Wikipedia.org, 2014). Analysis is one method that can be used in ICT to build critical thinking skills. Teachers can contribute to the develoment of critical thinking skills in ICT by providing materials where children can be creative by linking experience or observation to ICT. Teachers can alos give assignments that requires students to think critically and at the same time use ICT tools to analyze their thinking.

An example of critical thinking in ICT is a set of grade 6 students were discussing the importance of eating 3 meals per day and in what proportions each meal should be eaten. These children already know that 3 meals are to be eaten each day, however, they do not know in what roportions and what are the best things to eat at a particular time. They will need to think critically and use ICT to get the information. After finding the information they will now develop habits of eating healthy as they would have discovered important information that contributes to their health.

Providing opportunities that enhances children critical thinking skills teachers can act as guide or mentors for students by asking open-end questions (Smart Schools Program, 2012). Teachers can also give assignments that will involve the participation of parents.

References

Foundation for critical thinking. (2013). Defining Critical Thinking. Retrieved from The Critical Thinking Community: http://www.criticalthinking.org//

Smart Schools Program. (2012, august 22). Develop Students’ Critical Thinking Skills in ICT. Retrieved from Smart Schools Program: http://www.smartschools.ph/tools/teacherresources/12-08-28/Develop_Students_Critical_Thinking_Skills_in_ICT.aspx

Wikipedia.org. (2014, August 31). Analysis. Retrieved from Wikipedia: The free encyclopedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Analysis