Never Stop Asking: Teaching Students to be Better Critical Thinkers

The modern K-12 teacher's guide to teaching students how to ask questions, weigh the evidence, and think critically and independently. Never Stop Asking by Dr. Nathan Lang-Raad shows how human brains take mental shortcuts, known as heuristics, that can lead to illogical thinking, cognitive biases, and fallacies. The book offers strategies to support teaching critical thinking and weave it into the classroom, helping students build patience, discipline, and skill.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 18 June 2023
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons Inc

The modern K-12 teacher's essential guide to teaching students how to ask questions, weigh evidence, and think critically and independently is a crucial topic that requires attention. In today's fast-paced world, where quick answers and easy access to information are readily available through digital platforms, it is essential to encourage students to develop the skills of deep thinking and critical analysis.

Author Dr. Nathan Lang-Raad's book, "Never Stop Asking: Teaching Students to be Better Critical Thinkers," provides valuable insights into the human brain's tendency to take mental shortcuts, known as heuristics, which can lead to illogical thinking and cognitive biases. These shortcuts can hinder critical thinking and prevent students from reaching deep understandings.

To address this challenge, the book offers strategies for K-12 teachers to promote critical thinking and encourage students to think deeply. It emphasizes the importance of modeling thoughtful behavior and providing explicit support for critical thinking skills. By incorporating critical thinking into the everyday curriculum, teachers can help students build patience, discipline, and skill, which are essential for success in today's world.

One of the key insights from the book is the recognition of common psychological shortcuts and biases that hinder students and teachers alike. These shortcuts include confirmation bias, where individuals seek out information that confirms their existing beliefs, and the availability heuristic, where people rely on the most readily available information rather than conducting thorough research. By teaching students to recognize and challenge these biases, teachers can help them develop a more balanced and accurate understanding of the world.

The book also delves into the logic and science behind critical thinking. It explains why critical thinking leads to better outcomes in various domains, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and academic performance. By teaching students to apply critical thinking skills, teachers can help them become more independent and resilient learners who can navigate the complexities of the modern world.

Furthermore, the book provides practical strategies for bringing critical thinking into the classroom. It suggests ways to engage students in meaningful discussions, encourage active learning, and use questioning techniques to promote deeper thinking. By creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment, teachers can help students develop the confidence and skills necessary to think critically and independently.

In conclusion, "Never Stop Asking: Teaching Students to be Better Critical Thinkers" is an engaging and important book for K-12 teachers and instructional coaches. By promoting critical thinking and encouraging students to think deeply, teachers can help them develop the skills necessary for success in the digital age. The book provides valuable insights into the human brain's tendencies, common psychological shortcuts, and the logic and science behind critical thinking. With its practical strategies and engaging approach, "Never Stop Asking" is a valuable resource for educators who want to create a more thoughtful and informed generation of students.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781119887546