Critical Thinking Resources

Elliott, Sherman Lee. “Using Narrative Case Studies in an Online World Religions Course to Stimulate Deep Learning about Islam.” Current Issues in Education 13, no. 2 (April 19, 2010). http://cie.asu.edu/ojs/index.php/cieatasu/article/view/267.

Example of fostering critical thinking in the form of deep learning in an online environment.  Explains use of narrative case studies and provides data to demonstrate effectiveness.

Solvang, Elna K. “Thinking Developmentally: The Bible, the First-Year College Student, and Diversity.” Teaching Theology & Religion 7, no. 4 (2004): 223–29. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-9647.2004.00212.x

Provides both limited theoretical understanding of student perspectives and practical examples of how to promote critical thought in an undergraduate biblical studies class.  Detailed description of readings, videos and assignments used.

Walvoord, Barbara E. “Students’ Spirituality and ‘Big Questions’ in Introductory Religion Courses.” Teaching Theology & Religion 11, no. 1 (February 1, 2008): 3–13. doi:10.1111/j.1467-9647.2007.00391.x.

Article related to study also reported in author's book Teaching and learning in College Introductory  Religion Courses. Outlines method of using four student "voices" to help teach students critical thinking in religious studies.

Penaskovic, Richard. Critical Thinking and the Academic Study of Religion. Scholars Press Studies in the Humanities. Atlanta, Ga: Scholars Press, 1997.

A theoretical and practical guide to critical thinking in the religious studies classroom.  Most chapters include example exercises, assignments, or approaches for teaching critical thinking

Walvoord, Barbara E. Fassler. Teaching and Learning in College Introductory Religion Courses. Malden, MA ; Oxford: Blackwell Pub, 2008.

Includes practical examples of assignments and readings for a variety of classrooms.  Overview avail. from How to Help Students Confront Life's 'Big Questions' in Chronicle of Higher Education: http://chronicle.com/article/How-to-Help-Students-Confront/21876/