Facts are not always more important than opinions: here’s why
When it comes to facts versus opinions, just remember that not all facts have been true, and not all opinions should be dismissed either.
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Articles on Critical Thinking
Displaying 1 - 20 of 32 articles
“Design thinking” can prepare graduates for the real working world
We're living in a time of rapid transformation in terms of what's required for a country's workforce. Design thinking is one way to prepare graduates for these changing times.
20% maths decree sets a dangerous precedent for schooling in South Africa
Maths occupies an eminent place in global schooling assessment criteria not just because of its content, but for the skills that are taught and developed alongside it.
What is critical thinking? And do universities really teach it?
Being a good critical thinker is a desirable and highly-sought after trait for getting a job in today's economy. But are universities actually teaching this skill effectively?
What exactly is the scientific method and why do so many people get it wrong?
There's a big difference between science and pseudoscience. But if people don't understand how science works in the first place, it's very easy for them to fall for the pseudoscience.
Confused? Don’t worry because that can be a good thing
If you've ever felt confused then you're not alone. But knowing how to deal with confusion can help us to learn new things.
How adult learners are not getting 21st-century skills
A large number of adult learners are going back to community colleges to acquire new skills. Are they acquiring the skills necessary for today's technology-rich job environments?
Despairing about elections? This is why your vote matters
Not voting can have serious consequences regarding the kind of society we end up living in. Disengagement can mean a lowering of quality of life.
Why we need to hear what controversial people say and not silence the debate
Controversial arguments and ideas should be listened to and open to public scrutiny. Only then can we expose those ideas found wanting and lacking any credibility.
Do students lose depth in digital reading?
With the surge in e-books and digital devices, one concern has been whether students are learning as much. Research shows that some crucial elements of learning are indeed being lost.
UFOs, climate change and missing airliners: how to separate fact from fiction
It's easy to attribute the wrong cause to a mysterious phenomenon. But science has some tools to help you avoid these attribution errors.
Why there’s so little real argument in today’s political debate
Why has the political debate become such an uninspiring event today? It's difficult to find someone political who wants to genuinely argue for their position.
How to inoculate people against Donald Trump’s fact bending claims
Donald Trump has been known to spread misinformation. This gives us a great opportunity to hone our critical thinking skills.
We can’t trust common sense but we can trust science
How often have you been urged to use common sense during an argument or a debate? The problem is, common sense is an unreliable indicator of truth.
Here are some more reasons why liberal arts matter
It is those who know how to think nimbly, creatively and responsibly that end up building extraordinary careers.
Outdated exams are holding children back – not computers in the classroom
To prepare teachers for the 21st century, we need to reform the way we assess children.
It’s true. It matters when professors know their students’ names
Professors help students question their beliefs and assumptions. How should they build the trust?
Teaching how to think is just as important as teaching anything else
A new paper on teaching critical thinking skills in science has pointed out, yet again, the value of giving students experiences that go beyond simple recall or learned procedures.
The politics of fear have trumped the politics of courage – more’s the pity
Campaigns are now more focused on how to manipulate the electorate so you can govern as you see fit once you get power.
Some useful tips on how to raise an argumentative child
How can we make the most of the "why?" years and develop our children into effective inquirers and critical thinkers?
Top contributors
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Lecturer in Critical Thinking, Director of the UQ Critical Thinking Project, The University of Queensland
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Professor of Education, University of Derby
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Michael J. I. Brown is a Friend of The Conversation.
Associate professor, Monash University
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Senior Lecturer, Melbourne Centre for the Study of Higher Education & ARC-SRI Science of Learning Research Centre, University of Melbourne
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Senior Lecturer, Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University
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Research Assistant Professor, Center for Climate Change Communication, George Mason University
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Senior Lecturer in Philosophy, Deakin University
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Principal Fellow/Associate Professor in Higher Education, University of Melbourne
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Institute for Effective Education, University of York
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Pro Vice-Chancellor (Educational Innovation), University of Melbourne
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Research Fellow, University of Birmingham
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Professor of Sociology, New York University
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Associate Professor of Sociology and Education, University of Virginia
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Professor of Education, University of Florida
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Programme Lead: Science Education, Oxford Brookes University
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