Critical thinking is not a new concept in the world of education. However, teaching it to university students in teacher education programs can be difficult. Teaching these skills to students in grade school, especially in the early childhood classroom, comes with its own set of challenges. This chapter outlines strategies for teaching critical thinking skills in interesting and innovative ways, both at the university and early childhood level. Of particular interest is the project approach. During the three phases of this approach, children act as young investigators and apply critical thinking skills in their daily work. Future trends in both teacher education and the education of young children are also identified.
Critical thinking is not a new concept in the world of education. However, teaching it to university students in teacher education programs can be difficult. Teaching these skills to students in grade school, especially in the early childhood classroom, comes with its own set of challenges. This chapter outlines strategies for teaching critical thinking skills in interesting and innovative ways, both at the university and early childhood level. Of particular interest is the project approach. During the three phases of this approach, children act as young investigators and apply critical thinking skills in their daily work. Future trends in both teacher education and the education of young children are also identified.
The purpose of this chapter is to outline technological tools and techniques instructors can use in order to be successful in their communications with students in virtual environments thus increasing instructor productivity and efficiency as well as student success. Instructors must communicate effectively in the following areas: assignments and due dates; inactivity, missing assignments, and/or failing grades; and feedback to guide learning. The instructor must also be willing to communicate in creative ways by using various technological tools including apps and social media. Online tools and techniques covered include: discussion boards; online charts; assignments; presentations; spreadsheets, math engines, and other calculation software.
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