1st Edition

Confidence in Critical Thinking Developing Learners in Higher Education

By Arlene Egan Copyright 2019
    218 Pages
    by Routledge

    218 Pages
    by Routledge

    Confidence in Critical Thinking bridges the gap between theory and application for both new and established educators who wish to recognise their own critical-thinking skills, develop them and, in turn, support the development of their learners.

    By harnessing findings from research on design, engagement, goal setting, coaching, performance and the influence of language, this book:

    • Facilitates educators in moving from thinking about these skills as theoretical concepts to practical application
    • Supports educators in their own personal development
    • Provides practical exercises and ideas for learner skills development
    • Encourages reflection from the educator on their own development.

    A must-read for those wishing to examine the assumption that critical-thinking development happens to all learners to an equal degree as a natural part of the education process. Confidence in Critical Thinking is for both learners wishing to understand and develop critical-thinking skills and educators wanting to develop their learners’, and their own, critical skills.

    List of Tables; Preface; Acknowledgements; Part 1: The context for critical thinking; Chapter 1. The power within: Realising confidence in critical thinking; Chapter 2. The key to an open mind: Creating opportunities for your development; Part 2: Critical thinking skills for academic performance; Chapter 3: The game plan for learning and performance: Balancing belief and realism.; Chapter 4: The strength of your dominant side: Attending to the default setting; Chapter 5. The field of play: appreciating the wider view; Chapter 6. The stimulated senses: Organising your thinking to move forward; Chapter 7. The strategic move: Developing sound strategies for choice; Part 3: Critical thinking skills for monitoring and maintaining development; Chapter 8: The control within the chaos: Challenging your curiosities; Chapter 9: The time for self: Contemplating your thinking and performance; Chapter 10: The next level: Reflecting on what has been and what is yet to come

     

    Biography

    Dr Arlene Egan is a Lecturer, Researcher and Practitioner in Learning, Teaching, Leadership and Psychology.

    This well-referenced book will appeal to a wide range of educators in diverse contexts. It is universally applicable. It clarifies theoretic concepts related to critical thinking through clear explanation and practical examples. It offers educators the opportunity to gain insight into the theory on critical thinking and additionally provides exercises that allow insights to be shared with learners.
    The exercises in this book allow for immediate application of theory in a variety of learning contexts. This book offered me the ability to embed evidence informed learning activities in my instruction.
    This book truly brokers a connection between the theory and practice of 21st century instruction.

    Margot Barry, Lecturer and Researcher (Workplace Learning), Department of Occupational Therapy, HAN University of Applied Sciences, The Netherlands

    This is an excellent book that is accessible to educators and students alike. Built on strong theoretical foundations and packed with engaging practical exercises it provides a wealth of valuable strategies for improving critical thinking skills in everyday life. I recommend it very highly.

    Aidan Moran, Professor of Cognitive Psychology, University College Dublin, Ireland