critical thinking

Education

Same Class, New Approach: Reimagining Information Students’ Use of Gen AI in Formative Writing Assessments

We began teaching an online class about records scandals in 2023, at the very beginning of what would become the gen AI takeover. In 2024, we found that 67 of our 100 students used gen AI on the first essay assignment despite our express prohibition of its use—in any capacity. So, we had to pivot our teaching approach. By 2025, we actually asked students to use gen AI in their work in order to learn from it. Here, we lay out the changes we made and how we’re using gen AI in our writing instruction to build critical thinking skills and AI literacy.

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EducationFeatured

Confidence Without Comprehension: Why AI Literacy Needs a Reset

When AI tools collapse complex search processes into seamless responses, they can obscure uncertainty, mask gaps in understanding, and smooth over meaningful distinctions of meaning, relevance, and confidence. Users may feel informed without ever confronting the limits of their knowledge or the assumptions guiding how information is interpreted. The challenge for libraries is not just teaching people how to use AI tools, but how to think with them without surrendering judgement.

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Education

From Pictures to Pages: Embarking on New Reading Adventures

Children’s literature plays a pivotal role in early childhood development, serving as a tool for language acquisition, imagination, emotional growth, and cognitive development. A significant milestone in a child’s reading journey is the transition from picture books to chapter books. This shift marks a leap in cognitive abilities, attention span, and engagement with narratives. Understanding this transition helps parents, educators, and authors support young readers during this critical stage.

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EducationFeatured

Unlocking Minds: The Battle Over Banned Books and the Power of Free Thought

In a world where information and ideas flow freely, the concept of banning books may seem archaic or even regressive. However, throughout history and even in the present day, certain books have faced censorship, removed from libraries, challenged in schools, and restricted from young readers. While the intent behind banning books may be rooted in concerns over sensitive or controversial content, it’s essential to recognize that these banned books often hold immense value and provide valuable learning experiences for young minds.

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