A framework for teaching critical thinking skills is presented, and specific strategies that can be used at key places in this framework are outlined. The framework requires that teachers employ direct, systematic instruction in critical thinking skills prior to, during, and following student introduction to these skills. (RM)

Argues that critical thinking and problem-solving skills are best taught (and learned) as part of the instruction in the regular content areas. It is suggested that teachers should be more explicit when using specific thinking skills and point out when students are engaged in using those skills. (MBR)

This document summarizes five studies that offer insight into the nature of higher-order thinking skills and the most effective methods for teaching them to students. The reviews outline the conclusions, definitions, recommendations, specific methods of teaching, instructional strategies, and programs detailed in the documents themselves.…

This discussion of the political implications of implementing programs that develop students' critical thinking skills uses the proposals developed by Mancall, Aaron, and Walker as a model. Highlights include marketing the model, extending it to include library instruction in literature, implementing it in teaching reference and research skills,…

As inquiry learning has begun to permeate all areas of the curriculum, educators and school librarians across the United States have employed information process models such as Pathways to Knowledge(R) to teach students how to effectively gather, evaluate, and use information, as well as develop their critical thinking skills. Following the…

The purpose of the paper is to examine potential reasons for the lack of influence that reflective inquiry has had on social studies theory and to suggest an alternative perspective. The first two sections of the paper discuss the reasons for reflective inquiry's failure to impact on practice and include: (1) the interpretation of the inquiry…

Presents a model of instruction in which media specialists, in cooperation with teachers, go beyond teaching library skills and work with students to develop critical thinking and information use skills. (CLB)

Discusses recommendations from the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science for defining, developing, and promoting library media programs that teach information finding and using skills. Areas covered include helping students develop thinking skills, theoretical implications of current research on how children process information,…

Use of a critical approach in a curriculum design course for preservice teachers, by a five-phase process, would offer a beneficial shift away from the dominant "objectives first" models. This approach allows most teachers to reevaluate the processes and perspectives involved in educating children. (86 references) (CJH)

Recommends the frame of reference method in helping students learn to recognize bias in the questions an author asks, the evidence gathered, and the conclusions drawn. Describes a high school writing-anthropology unit on the Kung San society. Discusses the potentials, problems, and school-linked constraints in using frame of reference models. (IW)

Argues that exposing children to some of Lawrence Kohlberg's moral dilemmas, such as Helga's dilemma, may be pedagogically unsound at the elementary-school level. States sample responses provided are inappropriate, rigid, and self-righteous. Provides 10 reasons why this dilemma and its designated responses are of questionable morality. Claims…

This unit of study for high-ability language arts students in grades 2-3 uses an inquiry-based approach to investigate literature in an interdisciplinary curriculum. The guiding theme of the unit is the recognition of change as a concept that affects people and their relationships as well as the world around them. The unit provides the vehicle for…

This proceedings contains 27 articles on improving teaching and learning in higher education. The following articles are included: "Gender Differences and Faculty Work Satisfaction," (N. Beardslee, N. White, and J. Richter); "Using Your Own Student Evaluation Form for Teaching Improvement," (Y. Bhada); "Excellence in…

Assesses critical thinking teaching models, including skill development, problem-solving, logical thinking, multiaspect, and information processing approaches. Stresses creating open classroom environments where critical thinking that fosters effective, thoughtful decision making can flourish. Argues that teaching can and should be less…

This unit of study involves high ability intermediate-grade students interacting with literature while enhancing reading comprehension and textual analysis skills. Students read literature and engage in shared inquiry to develop an awareness about the nature and importance of change, particularly as it affects people in various circumstances,…