Are you aware of the importance of thinking-based learning? The competition in educational institutions, government administrative exams and high-income private careers is increasing day by day. So, It is important for new generation students to become smart thinkers to keep-up with the increasing competition.
Gone are the days of rote learning and forced memorization. If a student wishes to stand out in this digital modern era, then just mere learning of the concept is not going to be helpful. Students should be introduced to the concept of thinking-based learning. But what is thinking-based learning? Today we are going to explain to students what thinking-based learning is, why it is important and how they can become thinking-based learners.
What is Thinking-Based Learning
In simple terms, thinking-based learning emphasizes the importance of developing critical thinking skills in students. Critical thinking skills for students involve analytical thinking, good communication, creative thinking, open-mindedness, ability to solve problems and self evaluation.
A child is not born a critical thinker. Like all the other skills and abilities, critical thinking is a skill that can be learnt and sharpened. Students who lack critical thinking tend to make decisions based on their emotions. If something feels good, they assume it’s a good decision. And while anything that makes them uncomfortable is seen as a bad choice. When students are taught with thinking-based learning methods, they are more likely to become individuals capable of making rational decisions irrespective of their emotional state.
How is Traditional Learning Different from Thinking-Based Learning
Traditional learning and thinking-based learning represent two contrasting educational approaches. The education system in India was typically based on traditional learning which focused on memorization of the concepts and rote-learning. An example of traditional learning is a science teacher introducing the students to the concept of laws of motion through lectures and textbook readings. In this approach, primarily listen and take notes. Traditional learning follows a teacher-centric approach where the goal of learning is retention of the knowledge and the ability to recall the learning at the time of evaluation and tests.
Thinking-based learning takes a student-centric approach, focusing on experiential learning and skill development. Its goal is to prepare students for real-world challenges. Thinking-based learning follows a student-centric approach where the goal of education is to inculcate experiential learning and the development of skills relevant to function in the real world. An example of thinking-based learning is a science teacher guiding the students about the law of motions, the reason behind its existence and explaining the real-world situation, where it is applicable. Teachers teaching with thinking-based learning methods will encourage students to find out various situations where the law will be applicable.
What are the Key Components of Thinking-Based Learning
The following are the key components of thinking-based learning:
1. Cognitive Skills Development
In thinking-based learning, students learn how to look at the piece of information with an analytical approach which means not accepting the facts just because they are mentioned in the book. Thinking-based learning teaches students how to analyze their subjects creatively and logically rather than memorizing the facts in order to pass a test or exam.
2. Problem-Solving Approach
It is important for students to learn the information that makes them capable of solving a problem whether it’s an academic one or a life problem. When a student is learning how to solve a mathematical equation, rather than just giving him steps to solve the problem, the teacher should explain the mathematical concept behind the equation. Teachers should encourage students to solve problems through various methods which will develop a problem-solving approach in the students. Problem-solving skills are not only important aspects of academic life but they also help the students in becoming better at leading and managing roles.
3. Conceptual Understanding
Focusing on grasping underlying concepts and principles is more important than memorizing facts. Teachers should focus on teaching the reason for the existence of the concepts and building other information around the concept. It helps students understand that to gain deep knowledge or expertise in any skill, they must focus on the fundamentals and build upon that foundation.
4. Application of Knowledge
The purpose of education is to teach students the application of their knowledge. Through thinking-based learning teachers can encourage students to apply what they have learnt in diverse situations, promoting transfer of learning to new contexts.
5. Collaboration
Thinking-based learning can be done in a group setting as well. When teachers arrange group activities and discussions they allow their students to share their ideas, opinions and challenging viewpoints. Through exposure to challenging viewpoints, students learn to see and understand things from another person’s perspective, which develops open-mindedness in them.
6. Teaching How to Think not What to Think
Absorbing textbooks is not a great way of learning in the long-term. A child’s journey to learning begins when they are toddlers. With time children learn languages and knowledge passed on to them. But as children grow towards teenage and then adulthood, they have to learn individual thinking. Thinking-based learning teaches students how to think and not what to think. When children learn how to think they are better equipped to make the right decisions and unlearn toxic patterns that are coming on their way to success.
How can Students Successfully Implement Thinking-Based Learning in Their Lives?
By applying the following points students can implement thinking-based learning in their lives:
1. Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions
If you are a student, you should encourage yourself to ask questions whenever you are being taught new concepts. To become an exceptional learner, it is important to stay curious. Cultivate curiosity by asking “why,” “how,” and “what if” questions. Through these questions, you will gain a deeper understanding and be able to think beyond surface-level information.
2. Participate in Discussions and Debates
Students should participate in discussions and debates with peers. So, discussing concepts and ideas with a group of people will provide students with various perspectives. So, these perspectives will help students see various concepts in a different light and help them understand the importance of thinking-based learning.
3. Learning Through Mind Maps
Mind maps are a great tool for students who want to stimulate their brains to seek more knowledge about a particular topic. To develop thinking-based learning, mind maps can be utilized in everyday learning. Students just have to take a paper, write the main topic in the middle of the paper and now they can start writing all the information associated with that topic.
The information can be represented in the form of branches. To push their brain to think, students can further write all the information related to the branches. Students can make mind maps of all the concepts they find difficult to understand. Equally important, Mind maps provide deep knowledge of a concept to the students, inculcating understanding in them.
4. Applying Learnt Concepts to Real Life
Tthe purpose of educational concepts is to teach students life skills necessary for their growth and survival. Students can apply the concepts of mathematics and statistics to make a budget or to calculate distance during daily tasks like shopping. Firstly, students can witness scientific concepts like the water cycle, plant growth through photosynthesis, and the laws of inertia and motion in their day-to-day experiences.
When faced with personal challenges (e.g., time management), students can use problem-solving techniques they learned in school to find solutions. Since, if students want to apply knowledge of social studies in their lives, they can volunteer in local NGOs to understand societal structures and responsibilities. Lastly, the knowledge of government, history, or economics can be applied to community service projects.
5. Games that Help in The Development of Critical Thinking Skills
There are various games that can be played to develop critical thinking skills. Games such as jigsaw puzzles and logic puzzles develop problem-solving, reasoning, and critical thinking necessary skills to develop thinking-based learning. And then Through the building blocks of games like LEGO, students learn how to plan and think, a required step for the development of thinking-based learning. Every student should play classic chess as it gives important insights into planning and strategizing. In addition, all the games that aren’t predictable and need focus and thinking help students learn how to tackle challenges, think critically, and approach learning with a problem-solving mindset.
Conclusion
At AHPS, we believe that learning should be an exciting and meaningful journey for our students. What’s more, AHPS’s unique curriculum focuses on a thinking-based teaching approach which nurtures AHPSian’s curiosity, fosters teamwork, and inspires them to explore the world around them. Further moving away from rote memorization and focusing on thoughtful teaching methods, we empower our students to think critically and tackle real-life challenges with confidence and creativity. This approach not only enhances their academic experience but also prepares them to grow into compassionate individuals who are ready to make a positive impact on the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is Thinking-based Learning?
Ans1. Thinking-based learning is a modern way of learning where the emphasis is on developing critical thinking and experiential learning in the students for their overall development.
Q2. Why is Thinking-based Learning Important for Students?
Ans2. By adopting thinking-based learning students become better equipped to function and compete in an ever-growing globalized world in the field of education and careers.
Q3. How Can Parents Inculcate Thinking-based Learning in Their Child?
Ans3. Parents can nurture thinking-based learning in their children by encouraging their curiosity and letting them ask questions. Equally Important we at AHPS encourage parents to engage their children in fun problem-solving activities, promote creative play, and give the children opportunities to explore the world around them. This way, they’ll develop their independent thinking skills while enjoying their learning journey.
Q4. What are the Most Common Challenges in Implementing Thinking-based Learning?
Ans4. The primary challenge in implementing thinking-based learning in a child is a lack of awareness among teachers and parents. However, this awareness is growing as teacher training improves and technology is integrated into classrooms. Besides parents can help overcome these challenges by engaging in their children’s education, supporting innovative teaching methods, and creating an environment at home that encourages curiosity and critical thinking.