What is this Project About?
Critical Thinking is on of the pillars of liberal education, and as such plays a central role in the University of Lethbridge’s mission as an institution of liberal education. Critical Thinking is also a vibrant field of academic research and an educational subject that is the topic of hundreds of introductory and advanced courses all over the world. To quote on of the great scholars of critical thinking, Robert Ennis, “Critical thinking is reasonable reflective thinking that is focused on deciding what to believe or do.” (1987 in “A Taxonomy of Critical Thinking Dispositions and Abilities”).
One of the most serious practical problems that those interested in Critical Thinking Education face is that, in spite of the existence of several connected academic fields of research dedicated to providing its theoretical backbone (Critical Thinking and Argumentation Theory among them), there is a general assumption that instruction in critical thinking just happens alongside instruction in other subject matters and does not require special expertise. Because of this, dedicated engagement with critical thinking education and advocacy for seeking out and generating expertise in it are crucial to this university and to civic society at large.
Which Fellows are Involved in this Project?
The Research Fellows involved in this project are Kat Stevens, Susan Dieleman, and Nicholas Dunn. Student Fellow Nathan Fuehrer is involved via Ethics Bowl.
What Are Some Sample Outputs of this Project?
Do you ever find yourself frustrated with how easily you get distracted? Overwhelmed by the number of readings and deadlines you have?
Do you sometimes feel like you’re just going through the motions, handing in assignments and unsure if you even learned anything?
Have you ever questioned your own use of tools like ChatGPT, wondering if all it’s doing is making schoolwork easier to fake?
Have you ever felt intimidated to speak in class or struggled to write an email to a professor?
If so, consider registering for:
IDST 1850: How to Be a Student (And Actually Learn)
Winter 2026 / Tuesdays, 4 – 6 PM
Course description: How do you actually learn in university? In an age of generative AI, endless distractions, and information overload, being a student isn’t what it used to be. Many of us struggle with how to focus, think deeply, and meaningfully engage with our education and with others. This course is designed to help you develop the skills you need to succeed in university and beyond. We will explore questions about the nature of learning, attention, and the purpose of education, while also building practical strategies for reading, studying, writing, managing time, and communicating effectively. Along the way, we will reflect on our relationship to technology and how it shapes our ability to concentrate, experiment with different approaches to learning, and re-think habits that may be holding us back.
*Must have first-year standing to enrol. Course cap: 20.
For more information, contact Nicholas Dunn (nicholas.dunn@uleth.ca).
What Are Some Works-In-Progress Associated with this Project?
Textbook “How to Argue Without Being a Jerk” by Kat Stevens
How to Become Involved
If you want to become involved in this project, check out the “opportunities” tab and contact Susan Dieleman (susan.dieleman@uleth.ca) or Kat Stevens (katharina.stevens@uleth.ca). Please check their profile pages first to determine who would fit better with what you have in mind.