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Cited by 99Education and Critical Thinking DevelopmentEngineering Education and Curriculum DevelopmentDesign Education and Practice

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Situation critical: critical theory and critical thinking in engineering education

Claris, Lionel, Riley, Donna·2012·Engineering Studies
DOI 10.1080/19378629.2011.649920
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Abstract

Over the last decade, there has been an increased focus on developing critical thinking (CT) skills within the engineering curriculum. Typically, the practice of CT occurs fragmentarily in a singular, limited context, within one of several ABET learning outcomes. Drawing on critical theory, theories of moral development, and pedagogies of liberation, we examine and challenge conceptions of CT presently used in engineering education. We develop a reflexive view of CT, leading to CT not only within but also about engineering. In this framework, CT can no longer be reduced to the application of skills, but is reconceived as creative action resulting from reflective engagement with epistemic assumptions. We implemented this integrative approach to CT across multiple course contexts and educational outcomes in engineering, finding that thinking critically about engineering can challenge power/knowledge relationships, critique engineering epistemologies, engage in reflective and reflexive practice, and work relationally for social justice.

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Metadata

Authors
Claris, L., & Riley, D.
Affiliations
Smith College (US)
Corresponding author
Riley, Donna
ORCID
Riley, Donna
Venue
Engineering Studies
Publisher
Informa UK Limited
Published
2012-08
Volume
4
Issue
2
Pages
101-120
ISSN
  • 1937-8629 (ISSN-L)
  • 1940-8374
DOI
10.1080/19378629.2011.649920
OpenAlex
W2003912274
Cited by
99
References
1
Citations by year
2026: 4 · 2025: 7 · 2024: 22 · 2023: 9 · 2022: 15 · 2021: 4 · 2020: 15 · 2019: 3 · 2018: 4 · 2017: 3 · 2016: 2 · 2015: 4 · 2014: 5 · 2013: 1 · 2012: 1
FWCI
17.03
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
closed
Locations
Engineering Studies (publishedVersion)
Topics
  • Social Sciences › Education › Education and Critical Thinking Development
  • Social Sciences › Education › Engineering Education and Curriculum Development
  • Physical Sciences › Engineering › Mechanical Engineering › Design Education and Practice
Keywords
critical thinking, critical theory, engineering education, ABET learning outcomes, moral development, reflexive practice, epistemology of engineering, power and knowledge, social justice, reflective engagement, creative activity

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Claris, L., & Riley, D. (2012). Situation critical: critical theory and critical thinking in engineering education. Engineering Studies. https://doi.org/10.1080/19378629.2011.649920