Critical thinking is a disciplined process of observing, actively analyzing, evaluating, synthesizing information and facts and intellectually reasoning, reflecting, and making informed decisions. Learners of the best international schools must know the real world practical application of concepts learnt instead of just remembering the information. It is for this that it is imperative for them to be active learners and think critically. A critical thinker will actively reason and question ideas and beliefs as opposed to just accepting them.
Learners in grade 11 at Aditya Birla world academy come from curriculums like ICSE, CBSE, and IGCSE. The CBSE/ICSE offers a relatively theoretical model of education well suited for learners preparing for college entrance exams in India whereas the A levels and IB curriculum consists of a range of subjects including a global context of knowledge which encourages inquiry, research, and application-based learning and is accepted by universities around the world.
At Aditya Birla World Academy , we encourage students to ask why? and how? rather than what? Learners should understand the reason behind a conclusion or an argument and have an attitude to question such arguments. For eg. understanding the definition of a phenomenon in science, knowing a theorem or a property in math, or a fact in social sciences is not enough. Their curiosity to learn new information is nurtured by asking the cause, the effect, and the application of the concepts. Best international schools would encourage their learners to seek evidence, make reasoned judgements and be open to new ideas.
In today’s world, there is easy access to various unverified information. About the new information that the students are exposed to, they should have a healthy questioning attitude and not blindly believe everything everyone tells. Learners in the best international schools are encouraged to participate in discussions and inquire proactively where they come across different perspectives and get introduced to new information, and may also face disagreements which will give them an opportunity to develop communication skills. When faced with new convincing evidence, they should also be open to admitting that their opinions and ideas are not correct.
Aditya Birla world academy being among the best international schools in Mumbai, we strive to make the teaching learning process engaging by involving activities that enhance critical thinking, exploration and research skills. At grade 11, we strive to make learners confident individuals who can appreciate the subject and are encouraged to explore more in their area of interest. To enhance critical thinking skills among our grade 11 learners, we try to get students actively involved in justifying mathematical curiosities, raise vital questions while problem solving and present challenges within the reach of students. While solving problems, learners are encouraged to gather and assess information, formulate them clearly and precisely and use ideas to interpret the information insightfully. Problem solving in math becomes much more interesting with the use of hands-on learning techniques, use of technology, graphical soft wares, animations etc. After the learners arrive at the well-reasoned conclusion, they test them against relevant criteria, check their implications and practical consequences and finally interpret their results and findings and communicate effectively.
Best international schools not only promote acquisition of knowledge but lay emphasis on deeper understanding, importance of international mindedness and skill development through a variety of research based activities, case studies, global studies and encourage spirit of inquiry. Improved critical thinking skills will prepare them for the future- they will have sound thinking about their courses and projects at university. Learners will possess better analytical, strategic problem solving and decision making skills in their further studies and workplace.
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