5. Habits of Mind
Habits of Mind combines with Dimension 1, Attitudes and Perceptions, to form a backdrop for effective learning. Developing Habits of Mind not only helps with school work but sets a good foundation for students in the future. The characteristics listed in Dimension 5 are called habits because it is important to use them as frequently as possible.
The Habits of Mind used in Dimensions of Learning fall into three categories:
- Critical thinking
- Creative thinking
- Self-regulated thinking
Critical thinking
If you have mental habits that display critical thinking, you tend to:
- Be accurate and seek accuracy
- Be clear and seek clarity
- Maintain an open mind
- Restrain impulsivity
- Take a position when the situation warrants it
- Respond appropriately to others' feelings and level of knowledge
Creative thinking
If you have mental habits that display creative thinking, you tend to:
- Persevere
- Push the limits of your knowledge and abilities
- Generate, trust, and maintain your own standards of evaluation
- Generate new ways of viewing a situation that are outside the boundaries of standard conventions
Self-regulated thinking
If you have mental habits that display self-regulated thinking, you tend to:
- Monitor your own thinking
- Plan appropriately
- Identify and use necessary resources
- Respond Appropriately to feedback
- Evaluate the effectiveness of your actions