Critical Thinking Readings & GWAP

PART 1
1. What do you already know about critical thinking and critical thinking strategies?
Critical thinking involves thinking "outside of the box". It means that when one thinks, that there should be many options not just option A or option B; black or white. Critical thinking is the Grey area in between. Critical thinking allows for one not always have a correct answer, in my opinion. As long as there is rational between the thought then I find it to hold some validity. As a good critical thinker, one can handle uncertainty, be aware of their areas of ignorance, awaits a valid piece of evidence and for evidence-based answers to a specific issue.

2. As an educator, what do you want to know more about critical thinking strategies?
Instead of knowing more about critical thinking I'd like to know if empathizing is a component of critical thinking. When one empathizes with another, I believe that being to have critically thought about the situation.


3. In what ways can you apply critical thinking skills in your lesson planning? As a teacher and as a student in school.
Critical thinking skills can be applied to lesson planning by assigning response papers that allow for the student to comment, question, or discuss at least two issues of concern or interest. This allows for the student to give feedback and to think about the assigned reading.

PART 2
1. In what ways do GWAP games support sharing, communication, collaboration, and action?
GWAP games support sharing and collaboration because each has must be played with a partner. Although the user does not get to physically see or meet his/her partner one gets to interact with one's partner by sharing thoughts and collaborating by selectively thinking about what your partner will do next. It involves communication by allowing one to type and to detail what one hears, or sees and then submit those details so that the partner can make their selection of action.

2. How might I use a GWAP game in my lesson planning?
GWAP games can be used in lesson planning as "free-time". It is a opportunity for students to give their mind a break while their mind is still focusing on critical thinking, even if the students are not aware of it.