As a DST, I work with many teachers to help their students become critical thinkers as well as an effective contributors to discussions.  During discussions, we try to encourage students to reason effectively as well as make judgments/decisions.  The following skills are relevant to any classroom.

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

Reason Effectively

• Use various types of reasoning (inductive, deductive, etc.) as appropriate to the situation

Make Judgments and Decisions

• Effectively analyze and evaluate evidence, arguments, claims and beliefs
• Analyze and evaluate major alternative points of view
• Synthesize and make connections between information and arguments
• Interpret information and draw conclusions based on the best analysis
• Reflect critically on learning experiences and processes