In a world where information is abundant, sometimes unreliable and constantly shifting, students must be equipped with the right tools to parse truth from falsehood. Today’s learners are tomorrow’s problem-solvers, innovators, and decision-makers after all. To thrive in their personal and professional lives, they need the ability to analyse, evaluate, and make informed choices in complex situations.
So, What Is Critical Thinking Exactly?
Although, critical thinking can be summarised as the ability to question assumptions and assess evidence, it’s important to note that educators, psychologists and philosophers don’t always agree on a common theoretical definition. Thus, Critical thinking is a complex matter. For the sake of your children, however, it empowers them to engage deeply with content and become active participants in their own education.
How to Best Approach Its Development?
According to the European School Education Platform, the most effective way to teach critical thinking is to integrate it across the curriculum rather than treating it as a separate subject. This includes encouraging students to engage in inquiry-based learning, class discussions, group projects, and real-world problem-solving tasks. Through these activities, students not only develop their analytical skills but also learn to communicate and collaborate effectively.
A Variety of Method Across Europe
Other successful approaches include media literacy programs like Italy’s “Il Quotidiano in Classe,” which teach students to analyse news sources and develop informed opinions. Similarly, Finland’s education system and Scotland’s Storyline method foster environments where questioning and exploration are at the heart of learning. These methods show that when students are given the tools to think critically, they become more independent, adaptable, and engaged learners.
What About Your Children at BEPS?
At BEPS International School, we believe in preparing our students for life. That’s why critical thinking is an integral part of everything we do—from inquiry-led projects and interdisciplinary learning to fostering open dialogue in the classroom. Our goal is to give every student the confidence and capacity to think independently, solve problems creatively, and navigate the world with greater confidence.