Think therefore...
In my role as an Instructor, it is important yto me that my students learn to think critically. In the medical laboratory we are searching for answers to why the body is acting in a certian manner. All of the body systems do not always function as intended. My students have to be very analytical in their approach to their craft. I would like to know how other fields can relate to this lesson. What role do you feel critical thinking plays in the Major that your stiudents are taking?
Edward,
Well said and well explained. Doubt forms a foundation for thinking, reflection and problem solving. Hopefully we can get this message across to our students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
This thread attracted me because I have long admired Descartes. This overly quoted phrase is part of a longer dissertation that very few people are familiar with. If you find it difficult to see a connection between "thinking" and "being", I sympathize. Descartes' fundamental position was one of doubt. No real thinking is possible without doubt. In reality Descartes realize the that doubt was the only thing that he could be sure of. (Ironic) I doubt- that I know for sure. That process of doubting is the only thinking process that I can identify for sure. Therefore I think.
Mark,
What an interesting group of students you have in your courses. Their backgrounds and experiences really set the tone for how you approach helping them to become critical thinkers. They do need to learn how to get all the information they can, relate it to the current situation and then come up with a feasible solution. Something we all need to be able to do but often fail at.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Most of my students are active duty military, both US and international. Most of what I teach stresses both the art and science of dealing with conflict. Critical thinking is an extremely important skill for my students to master. We constantly have to remind them not to base their answers or conclusions on the methods or results of the last conflict, but rather on the current environment (political, social, technological, physical, financial, etc.).
William,
My work over recent years has been with medical and allied health schools and I agree wholeheartedly. Good questions for others to post a response. Thank you for your inquiry.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
