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1. Strategy: Wise Choice Process
Application: Introduction to Engineering

Implementation: Teach students the Wise Choice Process and have them practice it with a partner to solve a real problem each is now facing. Then discuss with the whole class to what degree the process worked to solve their problems. Next introduce them to the steps of the Engineering Process: 1) Identifying a need, 2) Defining the problem, 3) Conducting research, 4) Narrowing the research, 5) Analyzing set criteria, 6) Finding alternative solutions, 7) Analyzing possible solutions, 8) Making a decision, 9) Presenting the product, and 10) Communicating and selling the product. In pairs, have students compare the two processes for purpose and method. Then, in a whole class discussion, elicit the similarities of and differences between the two processes. Importantly, help students identify the purpose of these critical thinking processes: To identify a problem, design a plan for solving the problem, and evaluate the results.

2. Strategy: Toss a Test

Application:  Any course with homework or tests

Educator: Sarah Hadmack, Faculty, Religion, University of Hawaii and Windward Community College , HI

Implementation:  Use either for homework review or review for a quiz/test.  Buy small, soft balls at a craft shop.  Have students stand in a circle.  Ask a question and then throw a ball to a student.  The student with the ball must answer the question correctly in order to keep the ball.  If he/she answers incorrectly then he/she must throw the ball to another student to answer.  Ask students another question and throw another ball.  Student with the most balls at the end wins.