Critical Thinking

EDCO 725

Discussion Assignment Instructions

· At least 750 words

· References to the class sources in APA format.

· APA 7th Ed. Writing.

· The narrative should include numerous references to the class content.

Discussion Thread: Using Discussion for Critical Thinking

Overview

The emphasis in this class is on critical thinking (higher-order thinking skills—HOTS), along with active learning strategies. For this week’s assignment, we will focus on using discussion as an active learning strategy (vs. a passive lecture) to stimulate  thought. Note the language that is used in Svinicki & McKeachie chapter 5 which is replete with an emphasis on deeper thought—“examine, argue, defend, application, analysis, disagreement, uncertainty, constructive controversy, evidence” etc. While the Svinicki & McKeachie chapter on discussion presents a number of  techniques for discussions, we want to go below the surface and dig out some principles or concepts that make discussion such a good active learning strategy for higher-order thinking.

Instructions

1. First, read the Svinicki & McKeachie chapter 5 thoroughly and search for  underlying principles for teaching thought using discussion.

2. Make a list of critical thinking components that can be utilized in a good discussion. For instance, you could say:

· Discussion can explore concepts that don’t have obvious answers

· Discussion can focus on  relationships—between ideas, cause/effect, etc.

· Discussion can focus on “best” vs. “better”—“what is the best solution?”—note that this is an example of  evaluation from Bloom’s taxonomy

· Discussion can examine underlying beliefs

Add 4-5 general concepts to this list that you have drawn from the Svinicki & McKeachie chapter. Explain each of these concepts and the depth of thought possible given these underlying principles.  Make sure to expressly indicate what from chapter five led to the underlying principle you proposed in your list and cite correctly per APA.  

3. Review the  techniques of discussion reviewed in Svinicki & McKeachie (starting with a controversy, starting with questions, examining cases, etc.) and explain how several of these techniques can drive thought deeper.

4. Project to your own teaching demonstration that you will present in week 7. For your particular topic, how do you think a well-developed discussion can implement HOTS related to your topic? Draw from Svinicki & McKeachie and cite appropriately.