Research Guides: Teaching &amp; Learning Guide: Critical Thinking

What is Critical Thinking?

Some Definitions:

Critical Thinking is disciplined thinking that is clear, rational, open-minding, and informed by evidence. (dictionary.com)
Wikipedia defines critical thinking as "the analysis of facts to form a judgment.^[1] The subject is complex, and several different definitions exist, which generally include the rational, skeptical, unbiased analysis, or evaluation of factual evidence. Critical thinking is self-directed, self-disciplined, self-monitored, and self-corrective thinking.^[2] It presupposes assent to rigorous standards of excellence and mindful command of their use. It entails effective communication and problem-solving abilities as well as a commitment to overcome native egocentrism^[3]^[4] and sociocentrism."
Youtube video about critical thinking

The Critical Thinking Community
Information on critical thinking seminars, inservices, and conferences for professional development, a collection of published and unpublished writings focused on the background and theory of critical thinking, and curriculum guidelines and lesson plans for developing critical thinking skills in students. Assessment & testing and online learning resources.
Innovation and Critical Thinking
To improve instructor’s understanding of critical thinking, to prompt
reflection on the matter of how to improve instruction directed toward critical thinking, and to
introduce instructors to vital steps in designing course work dedicated to critical thinking
Teaching Critical Thinking: Some Lessons From Cognitive Science
Tim van Gelder. College Teaching; Winter 2005; 53, 1; ERIC®
Describes six key lessons from cognitive science for teachers of critical thinking.

Critical Thinking VALUE Rubric
AACU VALUE Rubric for the Critical Thinking Learning Outcome
Critical Thinking Testing and Assessment
The Critical Thinking Community. Files available for download:
White Paper: Consequential Validity; Using Assessment to Drive Instruction and Critical Thinking Grid (rubric),

The Ethical Practice of Critical Thinking by Martin Fowler
Call Number: 160 FOWLER
ISBN: 1594605033
Publication Date: 2008
A Field Guide to Lies: critical thinking in the information age by Daniel Levitin
Call Number: 153.42 LEVITIN
ISBN: 1101985585
Publication Date: 2016
Outlines recommendations for critical thinking practices that meet the challenges of the digital age's misinformation, demonstrating the role of science in information literacy while explaining the importance of skeptical reasoning in making decisions based on online information.
Your Deceptive Mind: a scientific guide to critical thinking skills by Steven Novella
Call Number: 153.NOVELLA Audiobook
ISBN: 1598038265
Publication Date: 2012
Great Courses