Which strategy can enhance critical thinking among students?

Encouraging debate and inquiry-based learning is a strategy that significantly enhances critical thinking among students. This approach fosters an environment where students are prompted to engage deeply with the content, analyze various perspectives, and articulate their understanding through discussion.

When students participate in debates, they are challenged to support their arguments with evidence, consider opposing viewpoints, and refine their thought processes based on peer interactions. Inquiry-based learning further promotes critical thinking by allowing students to ask questions, investigate, and discover solutions independently. This hands-on, exploratory approach not only develops problem-solving skills but also encourages students to think critically about complex issues, analyze information deeply, and apply their knowledge in meaningful ways.

This method is more effective than strategies that focus on closed-ended questions, teacher-led discussions, or rote memorization, as those approaches tend to limit student engagement and do not require the application of higher-order thinking skills. In contrast, debate and inquiry invite students to take an active role in their learning, leading to more significant cognitive development.