A Model of Critical Thinking as an Important Attribute for Success in the 21st Century

The aim of this paper is to suggest a specific teaching approach which employs a critical thinking model, as well as to show the possibilities for structuring professional knowledge and enhancing learning efficiency. Entering the world of global competition, the emphasis is on the need to prepare students to be communicative, collaborative, creative, innovative, to think critically and analytically, and to be able to effectively solve real-world problems. With higher-order thinking skills, which are essential for absorbing knowledge as well as for work performance, students will become effective communicators, critical and dynamic thinkers, competent problem solvers and career experts. By utilizing innovative pedagogy to support teaching and learning goals, students will be more likely to achieve their full potential and have their voices heard. The paper focuses on critical thinking for undergraduate ESP engineering students. Those students need strong critical thinking skills which are essential to get to the root of problems and find reasonable solutions. A model of critical thinking is designed to help those students to develop their thinking skills and prepare for a global, complex society.