ABSTRACT
The challenges of nurturing students’ growth as critical thinkers are elaborated in this chapter. Both teachers and students need to persevere because this type of growth represents a considerable shift in learners’ values and attitudes. Regrettably, research suggests that people with major gaps in their knowledge often do not realize their limited knowledge, and this problem is exacerbated when their partisan politics influence their political opinions. Students benefit from a level playing field, with a caring teacher who provides opportunities to reflect on the challenges of political partisanship, the practical implications of understanding these challenges, the importance of cooperation, the value of intrinsic motivation, and the need for de-stressing before engaging in higher interactive thinking skills and their application to novel settings. A caring teacher supports students as whole people and encourages them to discuss and respect varied perspectives. Students respond positively to teaching and learning when teachers realize that the best way to enter their heads is through their hearts. Considering students’ emotional and social needs has potential to reduce their stress, to open their hearts, and to calm their minds for the challenges of life, including engagement in higher interactive thinking skills (HITS).
