Teaching Critical Thinking: Synthesizing Skills and Attitudes

Presenter: Ed Sherline, University of Wyoming

Abstract: This presentation argued that teaching critical thinking should emphasize both the development of logic and argument skills and the development of attitudes such as open-mindedness and fair-mindedness. It provided some resources for teaching the logical skills as well as an inventory of the basic skills needed for understanding and evaluating arguments. In promoting the development of open and fair-mindedness, the presentation emphasized the use of open questions, and provided a list of questions with an eye to disciplines in agriculture. Finally, tips and activities for promoting open- and fair-mindedness were shared.

Handouts:

Some resources for teaching critical thinking within an agriculture-based course (Word Format)
An inventory of the basic skills needed for understanding and evaluating arguments in teaching critical thinking across the curriculum (Word Format)
Some open questions to use as prompts in teaching critical thinking within an agriculture-based course (Word Format)
Some tips and activities for promoting open-mindedness and fair-mindedness (Word Format)

Contact Information:
Ed Sherline
University of Wyoming
Department of Philosophy
331 Hoyt Hall
Laramie, WY 82071
307-766-5156