Transforming Thinking: Philosophical Inquiry in the Primary and Secondary Classroom by Catherine C. McCall is a good resource for educators aiming to foster critical thinking and philosophical inquiry among students. Published by Routledge, this book provides comprehensive guidance on creating and implementing a Community of Philosophical Inquiry (CoPI) in various educational settings, from kindergartens to secondary schools and beyond. McCall, a renowned figure in the field of philosophy for children, brings her extensive experience to this insightful text, making it essential for educators and community workers alike.
Structure
The book is meticulously structured, offering both theoretical foundations and practical applications for integrating philosophical inquiry into the classroom.
- The Origins and Development of ‘Community of Philosophical Inquiry.This chapter traces the historical and theoretical development of CoPI, offering a robust framework for understanding its principles and objectives.
- The Theoretical Landscape. McCall delves into the theoretical underpinnings of philosophical inquiry, discussing key concepts and how they apply to educational contexts.
- Philosophising with Five Year Old.One of the unique aspects of McCall’s approach is her focus on young children. This chapter provides practical strategies for engaging five-year-olds in philosophical discussions, demonstrating that even very young children can benefit from and contribute to philosophical inquiry.
- Creating a Community of Philosophical Inquiry (CoPI) with all Ages. McCall outlines how to establish and maintain a CoPI, regardless of the participants’ age. She emphasizes inclusivity and adaptability, ensuring that the CoPI model can be applied across diverse educational settings.
- Different Methods of Group Philosophical Discussion. This chapter explores various techniques for facilitating group discussions, helping educators choose the most effective methods for their specific contexts.
- What You Need to Know to Chair a CoPI with Six to Sixteen-Year-Olds. Practical advice is provided for educators on how to effectively lead a CoPI session, ensuring that discussions are productive and engaging for students aged six to sixteen.
- Implementing CoPI in Primary and Secondary Schools. McCall offers detailed guidance on integrating CoPI into the curriculum of both primary and secondary schools, addressing potential challenges and providing solutions.
- CoPI, Citizenship, Moral Virtue, and Academic Performance. The author examines the broader impacts of CoPI on students’ moral development, citizenship, and academic performance, supporting her arguments with empirical evidence and case studies.
- Afterword. The afterword reflects on the future of philosophical inquiry in education, encouraging ongoing innovation and commitment to this transformative teaching method.
Insights
- Development of Critical Thinking Skills. One of the central themes of the book is the enhancement of critical thinking skills through philosophical inquiry. McCall argues convincingly that engaging students in philosophical discussions helps them develop reasoning, critical thinking, and creative thinking abilities.
- Building a Community of Inquiry. The concept of a Community of Philosophical Inquiry (CoPI) is central to the book. McCall provides a detailed roadmap for creating and nurturing these communities, highlighting their role in fostering a collaborative and reflective learning environment.
- Inclusivity in Philosophical Education. McCall emphasizes the importance of making philosophical inquiry accessible to all students, regardless of age or background. Her practical advice on adapting discussions to different age groups and educational settings underscores the inclusive nature of CoPI.
- Practical Implementation. The book excels in offering practical strategies for educators. From detailed lesson plans to real-world examples, McCall equips teachers with the tools they need to successfully integrate philosophical inquiry into their classrooms.
- Broader Educational Impact. McCall discusses the broader implications of philosophical inquiry for students’ overall development. She links CoPI to improvements in moral reasoning, academic performance, and social skills, making a compelling case for its inclusion in the curriculum.
Critical Analysis
This book is a comprehensive and well-structured guide that combines theoretical insights with practical applications. McCall’s extensive experience and expertise are evident throughout the book, making it an invaluable resource for educators. Her emphasis on inclusivity and adaptability ensures that the CoPI model can be implemented in a wide range of educational settings. However, some readers might find the theoretical sections dense, particularly if they are new to the field of philosophy. While McCall does an admirable job of making complex ideas accessible, the book’s academic tone might be challenging for some educators.