The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking from edX

The knowledge economy, scientific and technological advances, democratic society, and other factors all exert pressure on education systems to develop students’ ability to think well—to think effectively, critically, and creatively. The movement for teaching thinking, which emerged in the West in the last third of the 20th century and thereafter expanded throughout the world, responded to this challenge with theories that address the question: What is the factor that generates good thinking and how does one teach it? There are multiple and occasionally contradictory answers to this question.

The course presents a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking:

The skills approach aims to impart thinking skills through demonstration and practice.
The dispositions approach aims to instill good thinking dispositions through modeling and organizational culture.
The understanding approach aims to help students develop understandings through undermining and inquiry.

Each approach defines the key concepts of the subject—“thinking,” “good thinking,” and “educating for thinking”—in its own distinctive way. With an understanding of the approaches to teaching thinking, we can teach students, workers, and citizens to think better.

What you'll learn

Familiarity with the movement for teaching thinking through a conceptual map that divides the movement into three approaches: skills, dispositions, and understanding
What good thinking is and, naturally, the skills, dispositions and understandings that will help improve your thinking
How to teach students or employees in knowledge-based workplaces to think better—more effectively, critically, and creatively
Whether our current schools, including our colleges and universities, teach students to think well
Inspiration to develop new educational environments that will develop and nurture student thinking

What's inside

Learning objectives

Familiarity with the movement for teaching thinking through a conceptual map that divides the movement into three approaches: skills, dispositions, and understanding
What good thinking is and, naturally, the skills, dispositions and understandings that will help improve your thinking
How to teach students or employees in knowledge-based workplaces to think better—more effectively, critically, and creatively

Whether our current schools, including our colleges and universities, teach students to think well
Inspiration to develop new educational environments that will develop and nurture student thinking

Familiarity with the movement for teaching thinking through a conceptual map that divides the movement into three approaches: skills, dispositions, and understanding
What good thinking is and, naturally, the skills, dispositions and understandings that will help improve your thinking
How to teach students or employees in knowledge-based workplaces to think better—more effectively, critically, and creatively
Whether our current schools, including our colleges and universities, teach students to think well
Inspiration to develop new educational environments that will develop and nurture student thinking

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Introduces a conceptual map to divide the movement for teaching thinking into three approaches: skills, dispositions, and understanding

Develops what good thinking is and, subsequently, the skills, dispositions, and understandings that will help improve your thinking

Explores how to teach students or employees in knowledge-based workplaces to think better—more effectively, critically, and creatively

Examines whether our current schools, including our colleges and universities, teach students to think well

Inspires developing new educational environments that will develop and nurture student thinking

Reviews summary

Approaches to teaching thinking: a conceptual map

According to students, this course offers a largely positive experience, particularly praised for its profound conceptual map that redefines approaches to teaching thinking into skills, dispositions, and understanding. Learners found the instructor's delivery engaging and the content incredibly insightful, inspiring them to rethink educational paradigms. While many found it offers valuable frameworks for educators and curriculum developers, some noted its strong theoretical focus and expressed a desire for more practical, step-by-step implementation strategies or real-world case studies, making it potentially less hands-on for those seeking immediate workplace tactics. It is highly recommended for professionals in education and strategic learning design.

Best for those in educational design, research, or teaching roles.

"Perhaps it's better suited for educational researchers or university professors, not for someone in corporate training."

"It feels more geared towards strategic educational design rather than classroom-level tactics."

"This course is a must for anyone involved in curriculum development or professional development."

Instructor's passion and clarity significantly enhance learning.

"The instructor's delivery is engaging and makes complex ideas accessible."

"The instructor's passion really shines through."

"The lectures were clear and the materials very helpful."

Offers a clear, insightful framework for teaching thinking.

"This course profoundly changed my perspective on teaching thinking. The conceptual map, dividing approaches into skills, dispositions, and understanding, is incredibly insightful and well-articulated."

"Absolutely brilliant! The course content is masterfully organized, providing a clear and comprehensive overview of various approaches to cultivating good thinking."

"The distinctions between skills, dispositions, and understanding were particularly eye-opening."

Strong theoretical insights, but some desire more practical application.

"While I found the content excellent for framing my understanding, I would have liked a bit more emphasis on practical, step-by-step implementation strategies."

"I struggled to translate them into actionable workplace strategies. It felt very academic and less 'hands-on' than I anticipated."

"I had to do a lot of extra reading to fully grasp how some of the 'dispositions' concepts could be practically taught. It felt a bit like a university lecture series."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking with these activities:

Read "Thinking and Reasoning: An Introduction to Critical and Creative Thought" by Robert J. Sternberg

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of thinking and reasoning, equipping you to critically evaluate arguments and make sound decisions in various aspects of your life and learning.

View Psychology on Amazon

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Read the book in small chunks, taking notes on key concepts and ideas.
Summarize each chapter in your own words to reinforce your understanding.
Engage in discussions or write reflective essays to explore the implications of the concepts presented in the book.

Participate in a study group or online forum for discussions on thinking and reasoning

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Engage in collaborative learning through discussions with peers, exchanging ideas, challenging perspectives, and deepening your comprehension of the course material.

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Join or form a study group with classmates.
Identify discussion topics related to the course content.
Prepare for discussions by reading the assigned materials and formulating your thoughts.

Create a mind map of the different approaches to teaching thinking

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Develop a visual representation of the key concepts and relationships among the different approaches to teaching thinking, enhancing your understanding of their strengths and limitations.

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Brainstorm and list down the main approaches to teaching thinking.
Identify the key concepts and connections between the approaches.
Use a mind mapping tool or draw a diagram to visually organize your ideas.

Four other activities

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Explore online tutorials on cognitive biases and heuristics

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Enhance your understanding of the cognitive biases and heuristics that influence our thinking and decision-making, enabling you to make more informed and rational choices.

Browse courses on Cognitive Biases

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Identify reputable online resources or platforms offering tutorials on cognitive biases and heuristics.
Select tutorials that align with your learning objectives.
Follow the tutorials, taking notes and completing any exercises or activities provided.

Complete a series of structured exercises on problem-solving and critical thinking skills

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Engage in targeted practice to improve your problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, developing the cognitive skills necessary for success in various fields and endeavors.

Browse courses on Problem Solving

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Identify online resources or textbooks with problem-solving exercises.
Set aside dedicated time for practicing these exercises regularly.
Analyze your performance, identify areas for improvement, and adjust your approach accordingly.

Develop a case study or example to illustrate the application of thinking skills in a real-world scenario

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Apply your knowledge of thinking skills to practical situations, enhancing your ability to solve problems, make decisions, and communicate your ideas effectively.

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Identify a real-world problem or scenario that requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Analyze the situation, identify the relevant factors, and develop a plan to address the issue.
Document your analysis, including the steps you took, the evidence you considered, and the recommendations you made.

Attend a workshop on effective communication of research findings

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Develop your ability to effectively communicate your research findings to a variety of audiences, ensuring that your ideas are clearly understood and have a meaningful impact.

Browse courses on Communication

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Identify and register for a workshop on effective communication of research findings.
Attend the workshop, taking notes and actively participating in the discussions.
Apply the techniques and strategies learned in the workshop to your own research presentations and publications.

Career center

Learners who complete The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Career Counselor

Career Counselors guide individuals in making career decisions and navigating career paths. They help clients identify their skills, interests, and values, and develop job search strategies. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Career Counselors because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Career Counselors better understand the cognitive processes involved in career decision-making and develop more effective strategies for helping clients think critically and creatively about their career options.

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Educational Consultant

Educational Consultants work with schools, districts, and other educational organizations to improve teaching and learning. They help develop curriculum, provide professional development for teachers, and conduct research on educational practices. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Educational Consultants because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Educational Consultants better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective strategies for helping teachers improve their teaching practices.

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Instructional Designer

Instructional Designers create and develop educational materials and programs. They work with subject matter experts to identify learning objectives, develop content, and design engaging learning experiences. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Instructional Designers because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Instructional Designers better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective instructional materials and programs.

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Learning and Development Manager

Learning and Development Managers oversee the development and implementation of training and development programs for employees. They work with business leaders to identify training needs, develop curriculum, and evaluate the effectiveness of training programs. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Learning and Development Managers because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Learning and Development Managers better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective training programs.

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Literacy Coach

Literacy Coaches work with teachers to improve literacy instruction. They provide professional development, coaching, and support to help teachers develop effective literacy practices. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Literacy Coaches because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Literacy Coaches better understand the cognitive processes involved in reading and writing and develop more effective strategies for helping teachers improve their literacy instruction.

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Museum Educator

Museum Educators develop and deliver educational programs for museum visitors. They work with curators and other museum staff to create exhibits and activities that engage visitors and promote learning. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Museum Educators because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Museum Educators better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective educational programs for museum visitors.

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School Administrator

School Administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of schools. They work with teachers, parents, and the community to create a positive learning environment for students. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for School Administrators because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help School Administrators better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective strategies for improving teaching and learning in their schools.

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Teacher

Teachers plan and deliver instruction to students in a variety of settings. They work with students to develop their academic, social, and emotional skills. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Teachers because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Teachers better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective teaching practices.

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Trainer

Trainers develop and deliver training programs for employees. They work with subject matter experts to identify training needs, develop content, and design engaging learning experiences. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Trainers because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Trainers better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective training programs.

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Curriculum Developer

Curriculum Developers design and develop educational curriculum for schools and other educational institutions. They work with teachers, subject matter experts, and other stakeholders to create curriculum that is aligned with educational standards and goals. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Curriculum Developers because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Curriculum Developers better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective curriculum.

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Educational Psychologist

Educational Psychologists study the cognitive, emotional, and social development of children and adolescents. They work with teachers, parents, and other professionals to help children and adolescents succeed in school and life. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Educational Psychologists because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Educational Psychologists better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective interventions for children and adolescents who are struggling in school.

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Higher Education Administrator

Higher Education Administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of colleges and universities. They work with faculty, staff, and students to create a positive learning environment for students and ensure that the institution is meeting its mission. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Higher Education Administrators because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Higher Education Administrators better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective strategies for improving teaching and learning on their campuses.

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Learning Scientist

Learning Scientists study the cognitive processes involved in learning. They work with educators and other professionals to develop more effective teaching and learning methods. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Learning Scientists because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Learning Scientists better understand the cognitive processes involved in learning and develop more effective research methods for studying learning.

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Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. They work with policymakers to develop and implement policies that address social and economic problems. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Policy Analysts because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Policy Analysts better understand the cognitive processes involved in policymaking and develop more effective policies.

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Program Manager

Program Managers oversee the development and implementation of programs and projects. They work with stakeholders to identify program goals, develop budgets, and manage project teams. The course, "The Hook, the Bait, and the Fish: Approaches to Teaching Thinking," may be useful for Program Managers because it provides a conceptual map to elucidate the theories of and approaches to teaching thinking. This knowledge can help Program Managers better understand the cognitive processes involved in program development and implementation and develop more effective programs.

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