TED Talks and Critical Thinking in Current Affairs and Discussion Classes

Abstract

In an increasingly divided world, where democracy is being threatened by the rise of fake news, skills such as critical thinking and media literacy are becoming even more vital. Students studying at Japanese universities face the dual challenges of being able to acquire a level of English proficiency that allows them to participate in an English speaking world, as well as an understanding of current affairs that is critical and analytical. This practical education report shows the advantages in incorporating TED Talks into a university Current Affairs and Discussion course, and the effect it has on the development of the critical thinking of the students.