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In the modern world where technology has become the carrier, traditional teaching methods and objectives do not suffice the needs of contemporary learners. While the world of education is changing with evolving technologies, the four Cs- Collaboration, Communication, Creative, and Critical Thinking become crucial for advanced learners. Since traditional pedagogies aren't enough to meet these needs, teachers and educators need to find ways to make it happen. Here is how to improve collaboration, communication, creative and critical thinking in students.
Ways to Improve Collaboration, Communication, Creative and Critical Thinking in Students
Incorporating the four Cs in the classroom is very different from delivering lectures. These skills should be used by learners every day to think critically as well as creatively. Below pointers explain how collaboration, communication, creative and critical thinking can be improved in students.
Collaboration
Collaboration plays a significant role in the personality development of an individual. Teachers should give projects and activities that allow students to work together. Group projects are one of the best options for doing this. Implementing newer technologies such as augmented reality enhances collaboration among students. Teachers can also guide students by giving them tips, and directions to become a team player.
Communication
Communication is vital for two or more people to understand each other. Hence, a student should know how to communicate with his or her peers alongside other people correctly. While conflict management forms an essential part of nurturing excellent communication skills, strategies such as apologies, negotiation, and effective advocacy play an equally important role. Teachers should guide students to participate in community issues. Learners can begin with blog entries and writing an op-ed. Other helpful practices include school board meetings, class discussions, etc. Teachers should also make students understand when it is right to interrupt, and when silence is the best option.
Creative Thinking
Mostly, creativity comes from within, but if students are encouraged from a young age, they are very likely to turn into creative thinkers. Teachers should motivate learners to ask out of the box questions and disagree whenever they feel like. Instead of emphasizing rote learning, teachers should ask students to work on creating solutions for complex problems. Educators can also try different methods of teaching to make students critical thinkers. One right way is to use Experiential Learning Solutions to help learners understand things in a much better way.
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking forms the foundation of strategic thinking; hence, it helps them become good at problem-solving and decision making. Like creative thinking, the essential base of critical thinking should be laid at a young age among students. Teachers should motivate students to ask questions, explore, and test theories to reach better results. Their curiosities should be encouraged and set free. A 21st Century skill, critical thinking helps students to think in the right way and make the best decisions. It lets learners question the possible outcomes of different actions. Teachers should ask students to explain various topics and how their solution is the best option to solve a problem. Debates and group discussions are a great way to make students critical thinkers.
The four Cs play a significant role in the holistic development of modern learners. With the pointers mentioned above, teachers can improve collaboration, communication, creative and critical thinking in students.