Critical Thinking/Problem Solving | Origin: EC115
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Integrating Career Readiness into Your Courses: Part I -->Critical Thinking/Problem Solving
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
I learned that integrating critical thinking into a course requires intentional design. Instead of focusing only on content delivery, we should create opportunities for students to wrestle with real-world problems, ambiguity, and multiple possible solutions. Strategies such as case studies, scenario-based learning, project-based assignments, and guided reflection can push students beyond memorization toward application and analysis.
This module reminded me that good problem solving isn’t about jumping to conclusions, it’s about pressing pause and thinking smarter. I learned how asking better questions and breaking problems into bite-size pieces leads to clearer solutions. I plan to use this by encouraging students to think it through instead of rushing to the answer, turning challenges into learning moments rather than stress moments. Critical thinking is basically a superpower, and I plan to use it often
I am an instructor in a lab class, so discussing controversial topics is not something that will come up to encourage critical thinking for my situation. I did like the idea of students evaluating another students work though. This is something that I can easily integrate into my course and will help both the evaluator and the evaluatee.
Comprehension is the lowest level of Blooms taxonomy. Evaluation is the highest. Create a project that tests students understanding of the refrigeration cycle. Then come back to the same project but this time have them evaluate it.
New resources to keep students critically thinking .
student when use critical thinking skills to become better employees
Teaching a subject to student isn't enough
I learned that career-ready critical thinking focuses on analyzing real-world problems, making informed decisions, and reflecting on outcomes not just getting the “right” answer. I plan to use real-life scenarios, open-ended challenges, and reflection activities to build these skills. I’m still curious about how to balance guidance with productive struggle for students who need extra support.
Critical thinking helps engage with students.
" Critical thinking and problem solving skills are imperative to be successful in professional and personal life"
Incorporating this into class lessons are important.
Critical thinking helps to engage with students to improve their thinking skills and hands on environment.
I learned that critical thinking and problem solving are not just about finding the “right” answer, but about understanding the process behind decisions and solutions. I learned the importance of analyzing information carefully, asking thoughtful questions, and considering multiple perspectives before drawing conclusions. This module also helped me see how applying concepts to real-world situations strengthens understanding and retention.
I intend to apply what I learned by being more intentional in how I approach challenges, both academically and professionally. Instead of rushing to a solution, I will slow down, break problems into smaller parts, and reflect on why a solution works. In the classroom, I plan to encourage students to explain their thinking and explore different strategies, helping them build confidence and independence as problem solvers.
Critical thinking is the best way to get students to understand what they are learning and how to apply it.
Critical thinking is the best way to bring student to understand your course. It allow student to open mind.
I have been trained to facilitate learning, it took me a year or two to understand that because it was different than the was I way taught. Once I figured out how to give the students the tools they need to be successful and challenge them to think on their own, things started to click better. KWL charts are a great way to introduce a topic, then revisit it once the topic is complete.
Critical thinking helped me analyze information instead of memorizing it. I learned how to question assumptions and evaluate evidence. This course strengthened my problem-solving and decision-making skills. I now think more deeply about why answers are correct, not just what the answer is. Critical thinking helped me apply what I learned to real-world situations.
Critical thinking is a tool that you can use in the class room to further emphasize the material
Critical thinking skills can be utilized in the classroom to expand the understanding of what the students are learning and incorporate it into real-life situations.