FRAMING GRAPHIC: Defining a Learning Progression Learning Progression in My Topic Area Is about..

What skills are needed to develop and build critical thought? *Assume the concepts of novice are required for practitioner and practitioner and novice for expert. Novice: (Self Practitioner: Independent/Expert: Awareness) (Awareness of Others (Differentiate and their ideas/Critical perspectives) Thought) Defining CONCEPT(S) Defining CONCEPT(S) Defining CONCEPT Communication Skills Collaborative Skills Original Thought Curiosity Diverse Perspectives Imagination External Awareness Problem Solving Skills Persistence Essential DETAILS -Identify and define authentic problems and significant questions for investigation. -Collect and analyze data to identify solutions and/or make informed decisions. -Process data and report results. -Identify trends and forecast possibilities. -Use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues. Essential DETAILS -Interact, collaborate, and publish with peers, experts, or others. -Develop cultural understanding and global awareness by engaging with learners of other cultures. -Contribute to project teams to produce original works or solve problems. -Use multiple processes and diverse perspectives to explore alternative solutions. Essential DETAILS -Apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes. -Create original works as a means of personal or group expression. -Demonstrate personal responsibility for lifelong learning.

So what? What is important to understand about this? The reality is that critical thought is a skill that is constantly evolving. I tend to believe that few people ever arrive at the expert level of critical thought and it is very hard to stay as an expert. I would anticipate that my students would live in the novice level and jump to practitioner from time to time. I feel as though the concepts describe above are innate in each of us but with no development these skills will fall to the wayside and can be difficult to redevelop. I feel the pinnacle of critical thought is original thought and is a

space that I myself seldom if ever visit. I think that when persons or groups function in the expert level is when deep meaningful work and change occur. I see this as the space for the Steve Jobs of innovation, the Gandhis of resistance, and the Mother Teresas of compassion.