Learning to Fly Through Informational Turbulence: Critical Thinking and the Case of the Minimum Wage

Abstract

The paper addresses online reasoning and information processing with respect to a much debated issue: the pros and cons of the minimum wage. Like with all controversial issues, one can easily remain in a self-reinforcing bubble, once one has taken sides, and immunize oneself against criticism. Paradoxically, the more information we have at our disposal, the easier this gets (Roetzel, 2019). The only (and possibly universal) antidote seems to be "critical thinking" (Ennis, 1987, 2011). However, critical thinking is a very broad concept, purported to include diverse kinds of information processing, and it is also thought to be content-specific. Therefore, we aim at addressing both understanding of content knowledge and reasoning processes. We pursue three goals with this paper: First, we conduct a conceptual analysis of the learning content and of reasoning patterns for and against the minimum wage. Second, we explicate an inferential framework that can be applied for processes of critical thinking. Third, teaching strategies are discussed to support reasoning processes and to promote critical thinking skills.

Development of Flipped Classroom using Cloud-Based Learning and Board Games Model to Enhance Critical Thinking Skills

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Analisis Berpikir Kritis Siswa dalam Pemecahan Masalah Aljabar Ditinjau dari Gaya Belajar Visual

“…In the learning process, teachers must understand students and adjust to the characteristics of the way of learning that each student has, so that the information conveyed to students can be received properly. Furthermore, teacher strategies in teaching are also highly necessary to support the reasoning process and to enhance critical thinking skills (Minnameier & Hermkes, 2020). One of the characteristics of students is their learning style.…”

Academic Self-efficacy as a Precondition for Critical Thinking in University Students

“…The importance of supporting critical thinking in students is also associated with their ability to cope with the demands placed on them by the 21st century society which is characterized by rapid development, changes and progress not only in the technological field. We often speak of the so-called digital age in which we face a huge increase in often contradictory information of different quality and relevance but also in the social and economic areas where these skills are crucial not only for the development of the individual but for all democratic societies (Crenshaw, Hale, & Harper, 2011;Minnameier & Hermkes, 2020;Öz & Balyer, 2018;Uribe-Enciso et al, 2017). In a sense, critical thinking can be perceived as scientific thinking denoting specific skills that can be built and developed (Cahyono, Kartono, Waluya, Mulyono, & Setyawati, 2021;Lilienfeld, Ammirati, & David, 2012;Schmaltz, Jansen, & Wenckowski, 2017).…”