When Education Silences Inquiry: Rethinking How We Teach Critical Thinking

@SereneLee

In today’s rapidly evolving world, schools often emphasize the importance of developing critical thinking, creativity, and confidence in self-expression. Yet, paradoxically, some educational environments seem to suppress these very qualities through rigid authority and an intolerance for differing opinions.

Recently, a student shared with me her experience of writing an essay about the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on human cognition and creativity. In her argument, she cautioned against excessive reliance on AI tools, expressing concern that overdependence might erode humans’ ability to think critically, create independently, and develop authentic skills. She cited credible research, included quotations from thought leaders, and presented her arguments coherently.

However, instead of engaging with her ideas in discussion, her teacher marked the essay harshly, dismissing her perspective as “lacking understanding” and filling her paper with question marks. When she asked if she could discuss or clarify her points, she was told that students were not allowed to question the teacher’s remarks - only the calculation of marks.

In another class, the same student presented the same essay topic to a different teacher, who praised her for her analytical thinking and thoughtful reasoning. The same words, the same ideas....... yet opposite responses.

This situation raises deeper concerns about the culture within some schools. When students are told not to question authority, even in the pursuit of learning, what message are we sending? Education should empower students to think independently, not to silence them for having a dissenting view.

The irony is that we encourage our young people to be “future-ready thinkers”....... adaptable, innovative, and open-minded. Yet, when they express ideas that challenge conventional views, they risk being misunderstood or even reprimanded. True education is not about compliance; it is about cultivating intellectual curiosity and the courage to question respectfully.

Teachers hold tremendous influence over how students perceive learning. A teacher who invites dialogue helps students grow in confidence, resilience, and discernment. Conversely, a teacher who discourages discussion may unintentionally teach students to suppress their voices and accept authority without question........ a lesson that can extend far beyond the classroom.

Perhaps it is time for us to reflect on what we truly want from education. Do we want classrooms that produce obedient high-scorers, or do we want to nurture thinkers who can engage critically with the world? Learning should never be about silencing curiosity but about guiding it.

If schools genuinely value holistic development, they must create environments where respectful disagreement is part of learning- where students can question, explore, and defend their viewpoints with evidence. 

After all, isn’t that what critical thinking is all about?