Critical thinking has become an AI-era buzzword. But what does it actually mean, and how do we teach it?

The article discusses the evolving concept of critical thinking in the context of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on education.
The traditional definition of critical thinking, focusing on evaluating evidence and making reasoned arguments, needs expansion to encompass digital environments shaped by algorithms and personalization.
The article argues that critical thinking involves two main components: reflection—questioning and assessing evidence—and judgement—deciding on the value and reliability of knowledge.
It emphasizes the importance of intellectual humility in critical thinking, distinguishing between polished performances and genuine understanding, thus preventing overconfidence and ensuring responsible judgment.
The article highlights that cultivating these critical thinking skills is integral to preparing future citizens for democracy, promoting the revision of opinions in the face of uncertainty and new information.
The role of education extends beyond teaching critical thinking to cultivating intellectual humility and judgement through diverse disciplinary experiences, thereby equipping students to navigate complex, information-rich environments with confidence grounded in genuine understanding.