Winter School On Critical Thinking Co-Hosted by Confucius Institute And China University Of Political Science And Law (CUPL)!
In continuation of the successful summer course, Bangor University's Confucius Institute joined forces with the China University of Political Science and Law to co-host an engaging online Winter school aimed at advancing critical thinking skills. The program, held from January 22nd to 31st, 2024, was designed to cultivate students' ability to process and analyse information critically, fostering an essential skill set applicable to various aspects of life beyond academic pursuits.
Developed and executed by Anthony Brooks, this series of eight classes provided a dynamic platform for young CUPL Critical Thinkers to acquire valuable traits and skills crucial to their daily lives and academic endeavours. Anthony Brooks, reflecting on the program, stated:
‘In addition to the structured framework, our Critical Thinking sessions have an organic evolution that sets them apart. While PowerPoint materials serve as motivation, it is the students' oral participation that truly breathes life into the sessions, enriching them with diverse vocabulary, insights, and unique perspectives. Each session witnesses a dynamic exchange of ideas, with certain concepts quoted, pondered, and expanded upon by fellow participants. This collaborative process fosters a gradual increase in confidence and a willingness to engage more articulately.
Throughout the program, a palpable transformation unfolds as students embrace openness, become attuned to biases, and develop resilience against intellectual trickery. The depth of thought exhibited by each participant becomes increasingly profound. The sharpening of analytical and evaluative skills is particularly notable, reaching its zenith during the 'synthesis' session on Shakespeare's intricate and ambiguous use of language. The enthusiasm and engagement of CUPL’s students are truly unparalleled, creating an intellectually vibrant atmosphere that resonates with the spirit of critical thinking.’
One student, reflecting on their experience, shared, ‘The best part of the Critical Thinking Winter School was the opportunity to engage in meaningful learning experiences outside the regular school year. This Winter School provided an opportunity to explore new subjects and interests, take classes from an expert teacher, and learn in a flexible and fun environment.’
These sentiments capture the essence of our program, showcasing the transformative impact it has on students' academic journeys.