According to Paul and Elder's stages of critical thinking development, is graduating practicing thinkers a breakthrough in schooling?

Graduating practicing thinkers is indeed considered a significant breakthrough in education as per Paul and Elder's stages of critical thinking development. This approach emphasizes the progression from basic understanding to higher-order thinking skills, highlighting that students who can critically analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information are better prepared for complex real-world challenges.

Practicing thinkers are able to apply their knowledge in practical situations, demonstrating not only their acquired knowledge but also their ability to navigate and address problems effectively. This shift in educational outcomes reflects a broader objective of education, aiming to cultivate individuals who can think independently and take informed actions.

While some may argue that this breakthrough isn't universally applicable or depends on the subject matter, the core principle remains that promoting critical thinking as an end-goal of education represents a transformative change in how students engage with learning and apply their skills beyond the classroom.