Critical Thinking 3 - How to teach Critical Thinking

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Case Scenario:

The country of Prosperia has experienced consistent GDP growth over the past decade. However, despite this growth, concerns have arisen about whether the average citizen's standard of living, as measured by per capita income, has improved. The government is seeking to understand the dynamics between GDP growth and per capita income.

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Here's a comprehensive list of exercises you can assign your students to enable a critical evaluation of the case involving the relationship between GDP growth and per capita income in Prosperia:

1. Analysis and Understanding: 

Read the case scenario and identify the key economic indicators involved (GDP growth and per capita income).
Define GDP growth and per capita income, explaining their significance in assessing a country's economic well-being.
Summarize the concerns raised in the case about the potential disparity between GDP growth and per capita income.

2. Questioning and Curiosity: 

List questions that arise from the case, such as "Why might per capita income not reflect GDP growth?" or "What factors could influence this discrepancy?"

3. Data Examination: 

Analyze the historical data provided on Prosperia's GDP growth and per capita income over the past decade.
Critically assess the reliability and sources of the economic data, discussing any limitations.

4. Bias and Assumptions: 

Discuss potential biases in how economic data is presented by the government, considering whether certain aspects might be highlighted or downplayed.

5. Factors Analysis: 

Identify and explain at least three potential factors that could contribute to the discrepancy between GDP growth and per capita income in Prosperia.
For each factor, discuss how it might influence the relationship between the two indicators.

6. Counterarguments and Differing Views: 

Prepare arguments supporting the idea that higher GDP growth doesn't necessarily lead to improved per capita income.
Prepare arguments against the above idea, emphasizing the positive relationship between GDP growth and per capita income.

7. Policy Solutions: 

Brainstorm and propose policy solutions that the government could consider to bridge the gap between GDP growth and per capita income, considering the identified factors.

8. Ethical Considerations: 

Discuss the ethical implications of prioritizing GDP growth over improving per capita income and citizens' well-being.

9. Data Analysis in Context: 

Analyze news articles or reports discussing similar cases in other countries, identifying any logical fallacies or biased claims related to GDP growth and per capita income.

10. Alternative Indicators: 

Research and propose alternative indicators beyond GDP and per capita income that could provide a more comprehensive understanding of citizens' well-being.

11. Reflective Discussion: 

Reflect on how your perspective on the relationship between GDP growth and per capita income has evolved throughout the case study.
Share insights gained about critical thinking in economic analysis and real-world policy decisions.

12. Final Research Paper: 

Compile all the exercises and insights into a comprehensive research paper that critically evaluates the relationship between GDP growth and per capita income in Prosperia, incorporating evidence, counterarguments, and ethical considerations.