The Center conducts advanced research and disseminates information on critical thinking.
Each year it sponsors an annual International Conference on Critical Thinking and Educational Reform. It has worked with the College Board, the National Education Association, the U.S. Department of Education, as well as numerous colleges, universities, and school districts to facilitate the implementation of critical thinking instruction focused on intellectual standards.
The following three studies demonstrate:
- the fact that, as a rule, critical thinking is not presently being effectively taught at the high school, college and university level, and yet
- it is possible to do so.
To assess students' understanding of critical thinking, we recommend use of the International Critical Thinking Test as well as the Critical Thinking Interview Profile for College Students. To assess faculty understanding of critical thinking and its importance to instruction, we recommend the Critical Thinking Interview Profile For Teachers and Faculty. By registering as a member of the community, you will have access to streaming video, which includes a sample student interview with Dr. Richard Paul and Rush Cosgrove.
RESEARCH TITLES
Effect of a Model for Critical Thinking on Student Achievement in Primary Source Document Analysis
and Interpretation, Argumentative Reasoning, Critical Thinking Dispositions and History Content
in a Community College History Course
Abstract of the Study, conducted by Jenny Reed, in partial fulfillment for her dissertation (October 26, 1998)
View Abstract -
View Full Dissertation (Adobe Acrobat PDF)
The Effect of Richard Paul's Universal Elements and Standards of Reasoning on Twelfth Grade Composition
A Research Proposal Presented to the Faculty Of the School
of Education Alliant International University In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the
Degree of Master of Arts in Education: Teaching
Study conducted by J. Stephen Scanlan, San Diego (2006)
View Abstract -
View Full Dissertation (Adobe Acrobat PDF)
Study of 38 Public Universities and 28 Private Universities
To Determine Faculty Emphasis on Critical Thinking In Instruction
Principal Researchers: Dr. Richard Paul, Dr. Linda Elder, and Dr. Ted Bartell
View Abstract -
View the full study
Substantive Critical Thinking as Developed by the Foundation for Critical Thinking Proves Effective in Raising SAT and ACT Test Scores at West Side High School: Staff Development Program Utilizes Critical Thinking Instruction to Improve Student Performance on ACT and SAT Tests, and in Critical Reading, Writing and Math
Dr. John Crook, West Side High School Principal
View the Report
