Critical thinking in formal education as a foundation for the human development of students

Abstract

Critical thinking is one of the cognitive skills that human beings develop throughout their lives. Today, critical thinking does not seem to have the same relevance and promotion as emotional intelligence, empathy, assertive communication, and problem solving, among other soft skills. Critical thinking remains a vital capacity for the progress of individuals and the societies in which they participate. While problem solving is part of critical thinking, it is not its only function and only benefit. This essay aims to show the reader a basic conceptualization of critical thinking, the importance of its inclusion in formal education, the contribution it makes to the intellectual and social development of students and its usefulness in different areas where they will develop throughout their lives.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5377/entorno.v1i74.16531

URI: http://hdl.handle.net/11298/1262