Enabling critical thinking development in higher education through the use of a structured planning tool

Critical thinking is a core component of higher education teaching and learning across multiple disciplines. However, supporting students to develop critical thinking skills can be challenging due to their prior experiences of education which may have emphasised rote learning and due to the high volume of approaches available to choose from as a teacher. This paper explores a self-study action research project which took place within initial teacher education and focused on exploring approaches to critical thinking development. Data collection took place with students and included interviews, surveys and collection of class work. Additionally, critical reflections and conversations with critical friends informed the research process. Through the analysis of data which emerged from action research cycles, and in line with best practice outlined in literature, a planning tool was developed to support critical thinking instruction. The planning tool includes pre-conditions for learning necessary to ensure due attention is given to the impact of the learning environment, four lesson elements which support student critical thinking development, and an awareness of the multiple outcomes of critical thinking engagement in education.