How to Incorporate Higher-order Thinking Questions in Learning and Development Programs

What are higher-order thinking questions?

Higher-order thinking questions are also known as complex or critical thinking questions. They are inquiries that challenge you to think beyond basic understanding and recall. When you ask question or think deeply about what you are learning – you create a deeper understanding of the learning material in you. In basic understanding, you are just spending more time in thinking in a “higher” order. So, the more you think the more you learn.

The concept is based on different learning taxonomies. Like application, analysis, evaluation, creation, problem-solving, connecting ideas, and making decisions. They involve mainly the top three levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy: analysis, evaluation, and creation. These questions require a deep understanding of the material, as well as the ability to manipulate and apply information in new and complex ways.

What is the purpose of higher-order thinking questions

Higher-order thinking questions encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to make connections between ideas. They are open-ended, often starting with stems like “Why”, “How” or “What if” and they push learners to support their answers with logical reasoning and evidence.

1. They help you think deeply of the learning material
2. They help you solve complex problems
3. They generate the skills of critical thinking in you
4. All these helps you improve your decision–making skills

Moreover, these types of questions are valuable in any sort of educational settings. because they help develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter and foster skills that are essential for lifelong learning.

Ways to incorporate higher-order Thinking in Learning and Development Programs

Incorporating higher-order thinking into learning and development programs is important for fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Here are some strategies to effectively integrate this into educational programs:

Let’s discuss in detail.

1. Real-world scenarios

One of the effective ways to assess higher-order thinking questions is to use scenario-based questions, particularly ones that simulate real work experiences. Scenario-based learning creates a safe environment where learners can have social interaction during online learning. Scenario-based learning eliminates the lack of personal one-on-one engagement with trained and qualified instructors by providing an interactive environment for active learning. The goal of this type of learning is to identify a solution or an answer to a real-world problem. Scenario-based learning can be used to give compliance training, soft skills training, professional skills training, leadership training, etc. A scenario-based learning environment is exceptional for keeping the learners engaged throughout their learning journey. It creates real experiences.

To learn more read our blog on How can you integrate scenario-based learning into your customer service training modules?

2. Connect concepts

You should make sure that you are helping your learners make connections between what they already know and what they are learning. When you encouraging them to see the relationships between different concepts. Encouraging learners to connect concepts across different domains or subjects fosters higher-order thinking skills like synthesis and evaluation. This can be achieved by

1. highlighting interdisciplinary connections
2. demonstrating how concepts learned in one context relate to others

With these connections, learners develop a holistic understanding of complex topics. They become better equipped to tackle multifaceted challenges.

3. Problem-solving strategies

You should teach step-by-step problem-solving methods and encourage the use of different strategies to approach problems. This involve teaching specific problem-solving frameworks or techniques. Like

1. root cause analysis or
2. design thinking.

Providing opportunities for learners to apply these strategies to solve real or simulated problems. Through iterative problem-solving experiences, learners learn to think critically, identify patterns, and generate innovative solutions. Design activities that require learners to apply their knowledge to real-life situations, enhancing the relevance and practicality of their learning.

To do so you need to master competency-based training programs. Read our blog on How to Master Competency-Based Training Programs?

4. Bloom’s taxonomy

Bloom’s taxonomy is a structural classification system for defining and distinguishing various levels of human cognition. Like knowledge, comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis and evaluation. The taxonomy focuses on how people can learn effectively using a structural base. The principle is that

1. knowledge can transform attitude
2. this new and acquired knowledge can shape intention, and
3. intentions created during learning drive behavior at work.

You can utilize levels of Bloom’s taxonomy as a framework to structure activities and assessments that target various levels of higher-order thinking questions. Workplace training uses this taxonomy to train employees effectively. Well-written learning objectives help employees anticipate what to expect from the training. It provides them with a structural base for learning. Instructional designers can use Bloom’s taxonomy verbs for objectives globally to define the required cognition level in learning to map the content type to the imagination or multimedia enablement of a training course.

To learn more read our blog on Benjamin Bloom’s Taxonomy in Workplace Training: Taking Learning to a Higher Level.

5. Collaborative learning

Collaborative learning is a learning technique where groups of learners learn together to achieve learning objectives. It involves the mutual engagement of participants. It is not just to learn but also to teach each other and share knowledge. collaborative learning can significantly elevate higher-order thinking by engaging learners in a collective process that promotes deeper understanding and application of concepts. These are examples among the most well-known collaborative learning:

1. Think-pair-share
2. Problem-based learning
3. Guided design
4. Case studies
5. Simulations
6. Peer teaching
7. Small group discussion
8. Peer learning

It brings together diverse viewpoints, encouraging learners to consider multiple angles and approaches to a problem. Learners are more likely to ask questions, share ideas, and engage in critical thinking when working together, leading to a deeper grasp of the material.

To learn more read our blog on Using Different Types of Learning Styles to Create an Effective Employee Training Program.

By integrating these strategies, educators can create dynamic learning and development environments that not only impart knowledge but also develop learners’ ability to think critically and creatively.

To learn more, schedule a meeting with us today.

Infographic

Knowledge Check!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are higher-order thinking questions?

A: Higher-order thinking questions, also known as complex or critical thinking questions, are inquiries that challenge learners to think beyond basic understanding and recall.

Q: What are the essential questions for higher-order thinking?

A: The essential questions for higher-order thinking can be, What would happen if…? What is a different way to solve the problem? How would you have solved the problem?