Critical Thinking May Be More Important Than We 'think' when it Comes to Schools in American Society

Why is a democratic style of learning important? How do we implement this style into our classrooms each day?  These questions and more are considered in the following article analysis, as well as suggestions on how to make critical thinking part of the every day class.

Meredith, K. Policy Matters: Freedom, Responsibility and Democratic Schools.
Thinking Classroom, A Journal of Reading, Writing, and Critical Reflection.

This article brought to life the idea of what schools should look like in a democratic society. The author noted various reforms in education around the world. The topic of Critical Literacy was mentioned and noted as “the capacity to engage in community as a capable individual.” This type of literacy may depend on the type of the community the learners are a part of. In this particular article, the type of community involves democracy. 

In order for learners to engage in the community of a democratic society, several elements of education are required. For example, students need not only to be able to emit verbatim, they are also expected to fulfill basic societal expectations of democratic citizens. In a democratic society, skills such as independent and critical thinking, creativity, the forming of opinions, and the ability to interact socially, are all necessary in order to engage in the community adequately and effectively. 

This topic is frequently discussed in education classes, however, rarely from the viewpoint of a formerly communistic society. It was interesting to note the importance of reform in such newly democratic societies. It was also encouraging to see the success of implementing such reforms. Naturally, it is a lengthy process; however several encouraging statements from teachers in newly democratic education systems were mentioned. The teachers seemed to be excited about using engaging activities, group work, collaboration, and student input. 

The students in this picture are part of an independent school where critical thinking is key. Students are taught from a young age to tap into their own personal creative imaginations and use these skills to contribute to their class.

Credit: www.independentschools.org/.../solomon.html

Copyright: www.independentschools.org/.../solomon.html