The use of critical thinking and creativity in teacher education in Nigeria

This paper examined the use of critical thinking and creativity in teacher education in Nigeria. It observed that the deficit in critical and creative thinking should be of concern to stakeholders in education. The paper examined the concepts of critical thinking and creativity, which were depicted as useful in teacher education because they provide teachers with skills and disposition useful for transformation within and outside the education sector. The paper outlined techniques of critical thinking, including teaching what is meaningful and engaging learners in problem solving activities and debates. The paper concluded that if teachers master and apply the skills of fostering critical and creative thinking, they will be better able to adjust to progress and changes that may occur as a result of critical thinking and creativity. It recommended that educational activities should be designed to foster the spirit of critical thinking and creativity as well as problem solving