Strategies for Strengthening Thinking Skills

Abstract

Skill is a foundational element for the development of the nation. It is an ability to perform a task in competent manner or it is an ability to perform a task leading to a specific pre-determined outcome. Thinking skills refer to the abilities for adaptive and positive behaviours that enable individuals to deal with the demands and challenges of everyday life.  It focuses on behaviour change or behaviour development approach designed to address a balance of three elements viz., a) Knowledge, b) attitude and c) competency.  Presently, thinking skills are being reflected with 21st century skills which can be visualized in 4Cs i.e., 1) Critical thinking and problem-solving skills, 2) Creative thinking and innovation, 3) Communication skills and 4) Collaboration skills. There are three core strategies for developing thinking skills. They are: 1) Questioning strategies, 2) Problem solving strategies and 3) Idea generation strategies. This paper deals with strategies for strengthening these skills.