Critical Thinking Models Presented by STEVE COXON, Ph.D. Assistant professor of gifted education

What is critical thinking? “Critical thinking is that mode of thinking…in which the thinker improves the quality of his or her thinking by skillfully taking charge of the structures inherent in thinking and imposing intellectual standards upon them.” pg. 1 –Paul (2003)

People of all ages and from all backgrounds are susceptible to fallacious arguments. Understanding the difference between valid science (for example) and hearsay, urban legend, or the flippant remarks of television pundits and politicians does not develop by accident, but requires training in critical thinking.

In particular, we must help students to become savvy about their use of Internet resources; to become skeptical of hearsay, urban legend, or the flippant remarks of television pundits; and to ask essential questions even, if not especially, of us.

Scientific Habits of Mind Cognitive skills, affective skills, and attitudes:  Curiosity  Creativity  Objectivity  Openness to new ideas  Skepticism  Tolerance for ambiguity Center for Gifted Education The College of William and Mary, 2009

Intellectual Standards: Clarity Accuracy Precision Relevance Depth Breadth Logic Significance Fairness Paul, 2003, pg. 9

Center for Gifted Education College of William and May

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Elements of Reasoning -- Paul, 1992 Issue/ Problem Evidence/ Data Point of View Implications/ Consequences Inferences Concepts/ Ideas Purpose/ Goal Assumptions Center for Gifted Education The College of William and Mary, 2009