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"Using the Four Questions Technique to Enhance Critical Thinking in Online Discussions" icon

Using the Four Questions Technique to Enhance Critical Thinking in Online Discussions

This article describes the effect of a four-questions technique used to enhance critical thinking in online discussions.  Students in a graduate educational psychology course participated in three online asynchronous discussions in reaction to case studies.  Prior to the second discussion only, students responded to questions designed to encourage critical thinking through the four-questions technique of analyzing, reflecting, applying, and questioning. The researchers measured evidence of critical thinking by rating students' comments in an online discussion with The Washington State University Critical and Integrative Thinking Scale.  Results suggest that the four-questions technique is effective in enhancing critical thinking in online discussions. 

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Mandy Hertel
Mandy Hertel (Faculty)
2 years ago
As a journal article I did not expect to find a teach tool that could so easily be integrated into the classroom. The research and findings are based around use in asynchronous courses however I can think of several ways this can be used in all modalities. The research shows a high correlation with the use of the proposed questions for increased critical thinking. The 4 question critical thinking tool is straight forward, easily adaptable to be used in any subject for any concept learning, and the article even offers a rubric for grading use. Great resource material!
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