Critical thinking and adult education: a conceptual model for developing critical thinking in adult learners

Abstract

While critical thinking has been intimately associated with adult education, there is not always a consensus as to its meaning and how to develop it in adult learners. After analysing the concept of critical thinking, a model is suggested consisting of five phases, which attempts to incorporate aspects of problem solving and creative thinking. Next, the development of critical thinking and the central role it plays in adult education are explored. It is concluded that issues surrounding the development of critical thinking may be an important key to developing an understanding of the field of adult education.