I completely agree with your general argument that our public school system does not teach students how to think critically, and I particularly identify with your statement that children are “taught what, not how, to think.” Although there are of course exceptions to this generalization, students—whether they are writing an essay or solving a math problem—are often taught step-by-step methods in school, and it is not unheard of for students to lose points/credit for not following these methods to a tee. I think that this method of teaching has taken root primarily due to the pressures associated with our system of standardized testing; it’s role as a determinant of both teacher and student worth has fostered an environment in which teachers teach and students learn for the sake of achieving the highest grade, rather than for the sake of the advancement of knowledge and critical thinking skills. This style of teaching the masses is most certainly problematic, particularly when students move on to college and eventually to their professional careers where critical thinking and the formation of original thought becomes especially necessary. Not only that, but without the capacity for critical and original thinking—as you pointed out—people will be deprived of some of the most enriching aspects of the human experience.

– Emily Peckham