What approach did Ennis identify for developing critical thinking in students?

The choice reflecting Ennis's identification of an approach for developing critical thinking in students is rooted in the comprehensive framework he proposed. Ennis detailed four distinct approaches to enhance critical thinking skills: general, infusion, immersion, and mixed approach. Each of these methods provides a unique pathway to integrate critical thinking into educational practices.

The general approach involves teaching critical thinking skills as standalone subjects or as part of existing curricula. Infusion focuses on incorporating critical thinking into regular content areas, making it a seamless part of student learning experiences. Immersion emphasizes creating environments where critical thinking is the norm, allowing students to practice these skills through various activities. The mixed approach combines elements from the other strategies, tailoring instruction to meet diverse learning needs.

This framework not only highlights the varying yet interconnected ways critical thinking can be developed but also underlines the importance of a structured approach to teaching these essential skills. By employing any of these methodologies, educators can foster an environment that encourages students to actively engage in and apply critical thinking throughout their educational journey.