What is a Thinking Classroom?
The Thinking Classroom, based on Peter Liljedahl’s research, is an innovative approach to education designed to actively engage students in their learning process. It focuses on creating an environment where children are encouraged to think critically and solve problems on their own, rather than simply memorizing and replicating solutions. Through a set of 14 carefully developed practices, teachers facilitate activities that promote deep understanding, curiosity, and independent thought. The goal is to help students become more confident, capable learners who are able to tackle new challenges with a strong foundation of knowledge and critical thinking skills. This means students are being taught not just to learn, but to think and understand deeply, preparing them for success both inside and outside the classroom.
Motivation Behind the Thinking Classroom
When examining classrooms from kindergarten through 12th grade, research by Peter Liljedahl found that a surprisingly small number of students, less than 25%, were genuinely engaging with their learning tasks. Instead of actively thinking through problems, the majority of students were seen copying answers from examples provided to them. This approach allowed them to complete tasks by simply imitating the steps shown, without truly understanding the underlying concepts. As a result, while they could handle questions similar to the examples they copied, they struggled to apply what they learned to new concepts. This observation led Liljedahl to conclude that true learning requires active thinking, not just copying. To address this, he initiated a project focused on developing teaching strategies that promote deep thinking among students. His efforts culminated in the creation of 14 specific teaching practices known as the “Thinking Classroom,” designed to foster genuine understanding and engagement in students.
Going Beyond the Curriculum
The Thinking Classroom approach is instrumental in developing transferable skills in students, skills that extend far beyond the confines of the classroom. By emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-directed learning, this method equips students with the ability to analyze information, adapt to new situations, and creatively approach challenges. These competencies are essential in virtually every aspect of life, preparing students not only for academic success but also for their future careers and personal decision-making. Through engaging in tasks that require deep understanding and active problem-solving, students learn how to learn, making them more adaptable and resilient in the face of change.
Through intentional practices, teachers remove social and academic barriers so that students learn from and about one another. By using student thinking to lead the learning, we place value on student voice and lived experiences. Thinking Classrooms provide teachers the opportunity to respond individually to student needs, ensuring all are supported in their learning.
