Critical Thinking in the Classroom with Dr. David Moltow

Critical Thinking in the Classroom

In this interactive workshop, participants will be introduced to the function, value, and main techniques of critical thinking (and how to teach them). Beginning with a series of collaborative critical and creative thinking exercises that will illuminate the relationship between intellectual engagement and learning, topics covered will include the development of questions, the importance of language in clarifying and analysing beliefs, the role of reasoning, and the use of evidence. The idea of reasonableness will form a core thread throughout the sessions, as will an emerging understanding of truth and knowledge in learning contexts. We will explore the place of critical thinking in and across the curriculum, consider the core dispositions of critical and creative thinking that support cognitive engagement and learning, and workshop strategies that can help participants to plan how to incorporate the cultivation of critical thinking skills into their teaching practice.

About the facilitator

Dr David Moltow, BA (Hons), PhD (Tas), FACEL, has lectured in Critical Thinking, and Ethics at the University of Tasmania since 2001. Since joining the School of Education in 2008, David has been Director of Student Engagement and Head of Discipline - Graduate Teacher Education. He has worked as a learning development consultant in critical reasoning and ethics for a range of agencies nationally, including the Departments of Education and Prime Minister and Cabinet. In 2020, in recognition of service to Tasmanian education, he was elected Fellow of the Australian Council for Education Leadership. His current research focusses on Intellectual Engagement through the cultivation of Critical Learning Dispositions.