The Council for Aid to Education, Inc. (CAE) has introduced a new set of resources aimed at enhancing critical thinking skills among students in secondary and higher education institutions. In today’s world, where critical thinking is highly valued by employers, CAE is committed to providing educators with the tools needed to equip students with the necessary skills to succeed in a complex environment.
Bob Yayac, CAE’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the importance of teaching students skills that will help them adapt and thrive in the face of technological advancements and changes in the workforce. The Critical Thinking Skills Resources developed by CAE are a response to the growing demand from educators to not only assess students’ critical thinking abilities but also to help them develop and enhance their higher-order skills.
These new resources include a Critical Thinking Framework that guides students through the process of effective critical thinking, along with a series of real-world scenarios that challenge students to solve problems and make recommendations. One such scenario, “Bayville Commuter Rail,” puts students in the shoes of a local official dealing with the aftermath of a severe storm, requiring them to analyze documents, engage in problem-solving, and propose a repair plan.
CAE’s Critical Thinking Skills Resources are designed to complement existing curricula, providing students with the opportunity to practice critical thinking and apply their learning to real-world situations. In addition to the scenarios, CAE offers ancillary materials for faculty and students, as well as professional development for instructors. Custom scenarios can also be developed to align more closely with specific educational models and curriculum.
Doris Zahner, CAE’s Chief Academic Officer, emphasized the organization’s mission to enhance students’ skills in areas valued by employers. By measuring students’ higher-order skills through performance-based assessments and providing comprehensive resources, CAE aims to prepare students for academic success and future careers.
For more information about CAE’s Critical Thinking Skills Resources and other services, visit their website at www.cae.org. With over 20 years of experience, CAE has helped hundreds of thousands of students worldwide improve their critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Through performance-based assessments like the Collegiate Learning Assessment (CLA+) and College and Career Readiness Assessment (CCRA+), CAE continues to support K-12 students in the US and beyond.
In conclusion, CAE’s new Critical Thinking Skills Resources offer educators the tools they need to help students develop essential skills for success in today’s rapidly changing world. By integrating critical thinking practice into existing curricula and providing real-world scenarios, CAE is supporting students in their academic and professional growth. Visit CAE’s website to learn more about their innovative resources and assessments.
