d. Promote critical thinking in those that they educate and serve.
Think of yourself as a coach. It is important for teachers to engage students in their learning, in order for students to understand the significance of the information taught and also critically explore why the information exists as it does. “Critical thinking is foundation to the effective teaching of any subject” (Foundation for Critical Thinking, 2011). The teacher should act as a coach, guiding students along the path of development, rather than telling students exactly what needs to be learned (Paul & Elder, 2008). The teacher should push students to explore the reasoning behind information. Acting as a coach is a supportive role. Coaching is not punitive in nature and is useful for objective reflection on opportunities for growth or improvement. The teacher/coach should strive to make others want to grow and develop. They should also be patient and developmental; not quick to criticize or judge. In the role as a coach, the teacher will facilitate and nurture the student in creating his or her own path to success.
The coach should never tell someone “This is how you do it”. This statement does not challenge the student to explore and engage in creating their own style of learning. One of the best contributions as a teacher is the ability to listen to someone and share guidance based on actual experiences without providing the answers directly. This act will encourage students to develop their own ideas. Encouraging students to explore and learn promotes discovery and the creation of new inventions. Good teachers know when to sit back silently and visualize the creation that is taking place all around them. “Educators can establish objectives and learner-centered approaches that challenge the educator’s creativity to foster self-direction, motivation, interest, and active participation for independence and interdependence in learning” (Bastable, et. al, 2011, p. 194).
Reference
Bastable, S., Gramat, P., Jacobs, K., & Sopczyk, D. (2011). Health professional as educator. Boston: Jones and Bartlett Publishers. Foundation for Critical Thinking. (2011). The Critical Thinking Community.
Paul, R., and Elder, L. (2008). How to improve student learning. Dillon Beach, CA: Foundation for Critical Thinking.
This presentation served as a resource for education on Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. It is a complex cardiac anomoly and the powerpoint reviews not only the defect, but also the manifestations and treatment options. The assignment objectives are to stimulate critical thinking and knowledge growth of the defect and how it affects the individuals who are diagnosed with it.