Workshop 8
Nurturing Independent Thinkers

Homework (On Your Own)

Think about two students – one who exhibits independent thinking and another who has trouble critically evaluating his or her own work and progress.  In your journal, describe each student. As you do so, think about what qualities the ‘independent thinker’ has that allows him or her to be self-reflective and critical. Think about the characteristics the less independent student exhibits, and what specific techniques or practices might help this student become more self-reflective and independent in his or her thinking.

Now look back at the journal you started at the beginning of this workshop, and think about how your attitude toward your own teaching has changed.