Critical thinking is the skill that children (and adults) must develop to learn how to solve problems. Critical thinking is a mental process that consists of analyzing or evaluating information obtained through observation, experience, reasoning or communication. The core of critical thinking is responding to information rather than just accepting it. Questioning is the most important component of critical thinking. It intersects with disciplines such as science, mathematics, history, economics and philosophy, all necessary for the future development of our society. Here are some strategies for educating critical thinking, which can be used by both teachers and parents.
Steps
Step 1. Observe and draw conclusions
- When children begin to make precise observations on objects or information, then they are able to draw conclusions or make judgments based on those observations.
- When a child asks you "Why?", Reply by saying "Why do you think?" To encourage the child to draw his own conclusions.
- This is the principle of scientific observation skills that will be useful and necessary in the course of life.
Step 2. Compare news and topics
- This allows children to express how things are similar and different and helps them analyze and categorize information.
- A simple example of this activity is to compare an apple and an orange. It allows them to describe their similarities and differences.
- Comparing stories is another way to encourage critical thinking. When children list the commonalities and differences between the stories, they analyze the characters, the setting, the plot and other elements.
Step 3. Discuss and analyze the stories
- Have the children "repeat" a story you have read, in their own words. This prompts them to synthesize the main concepts of the story instead of just answering questions.
- Ask questions that don't find direct answers in history. This allows children to infer and draw their own conclusions based on what they understand of the story. An example of a question could be "What do you think the author meant when " or "Why do you think the character"
- Ask the children to analyze the characters and the setting of the story. This is an excellent opportunity to allow the child to compare elements internal and external to the story.
- Have the children connect the story to their own life and to real situations. This is the main critical thinking skill called synthesis, in which children begin to use information in new ways and apply it to different concepts.
Step 4. Learning in synergy
- Offering cooperative learning opportunities will help children develop critical thinking skills as they will share their ideas and learn from each other.
- Encourage the children to read the stories together and share their views on the story. This can spark a constructive debate among older children, in which they have to defend their ideas.
- Let the children explore through common play activities, for example with water, sand or bubbles. Ask them what they are doing.
Step 5. Telling stories with no conclusion
- Telling a never-ending story and asking children to complete it is another way to develop critical thinking skills. Children need to take the information from the story, creatively complete it and come to their own conclusion.
- This can also be done by asking a child "What do you think happens next?", Referring to a familiar story that has a conclusion, such as a fairy tale.
Step 6. Putting the Socratic Method into practice
Socrates was famous for teaching critical thinking through relentless questioning. Children are naturally inclined to ask questions, so turn the situation around a bit and answer their questions with further questions. Take a stand against theirs and try to get them to defend their views on a topic by asking meaningful questions
Advice
- The activities listed can also be carried out with children and adults, choosing different topics and increasing the level of difficulty.
- Critical thinking activities predispose to learning study subjects such as mathematics, science and reading skills.
- Critical thinking skills can be stimulated by helping children solve everyday problems, such as determining how many coins are needed to make a certain purchase, how many buckets of water are needed to water the garden, or how two houses are similar or different.
