What kinds of problems might students confront either directly with the course material or in a work-related or personal situation? The newspapers are one source of real-world problems for a variety of subjects where students can see a relevance.

general examples
specific examples

General Examples
For example a biology instructor might pose a problem about human cloning or limiting dam construction to increase fish survival. Both topics could have a variety of possible answers based on supporting evidence. In history examples might include the US policy on the Arab/Israeli peace process or even why the British and colonials disagreed about the Revolutionary War.

Business scenarios are often used to provide a tool for posing an open-ended problem. English faculty offer conflicting interpretations of literature as evidence for students to analyze before defending a opinion.

The object of the exercise is not to find a correct answer, but to practice the process of critical thinking.

Students are asked to decide what they think initially and why, to seek other views and evidence, and ultimately to decide which opinion is most reasonable.

Depending on the course, the instructor might direct students to complete the activity and post an initial opinion early in the course.  Then as additional content, opinions, and views are covered throughout the course, students are asked to answer the same question near the end of the course to determine if all answers are further developed.

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Specific Examples
Using a web search or going to a site such as Merlot may help instructors find course specific examples of activities.  One site that provides examples is Critical Thinking Applications from San Jose State's Mission Control site.  An activity using the Declaration of Independence is particularly intriguing.  Not only is the Declaration reprinted, but unfamiliar vocabulary is defined and an analysis is provided.  The activity is listed at the analysis button and is called questions and activities.  Here the instructor has asked students to form an opinion about current events throughout history using the Declaration as a model. (See the Links page for other sources of critical thinking activities.)

Faculty should be able to incorporate into online discussions the same kinds of critical thinking activities that are used in the face-to-face environment.  The Online Discussion branch will provide some tips for creating a successful online discussion.  

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