1. Independent thought a collection of ideas , thoughts, & philosophies

2. Webster Dictionary defines independent as: “(1) : not requiring or relying on something else : not contingent <an independent conclusion> (2) : not looking to others for one's opinions or for guidance in conduct (3) : not bound by or committed to a political party”

3. A teacher’s view on independent thought “As a ninth grade STEM teacher I have observed that a high percentage of today’s 9th grade student lack independent thought, creativity, basic problem solving skills, and even the ability to improvise and overcome an adverse situation. These skills are necessary in order to survive in a society that relies heavily on technology….”

4. Independent Thoughts on the future! Increase The amount of careers which require technical skills The technical skills needed to function in a web 2.0 environment/career The demand for technology user to trouble shoot and problem solve The ability to follow instructions Decrease The amount of careers available with just a high school diploma Careers where the employer will stand over you and tell you what to do at every step(If he ever existed)

5. “New curriculum aims to foster independent thought” (2007) New Zealand introduces a “curriculum aimed at helping students think for themselves rather than just learn facts” “The curriculum also includes a range of key competencies young people need to acquire such as thinking, using language, symbols and texts, managing oneself, relating to others and participating and contributing”

6. “New curriculum aims to foster independent thought” “This curriculum represents a shift away from focusing on knowing facts and figures to knowing also how to use knowledge effectively and apply it outside the classroom,"

7. Pick the Brain:5 Ways to Develop Independent Thought 1. Disconnect from sources of conventional thinking Do not run straight to the web for your answer. At least try think it out for yourself first!

8. 5 Ways to Develop Independent Thought 2. Immerse yourself in experiences that conflict with your current perspective Deliberately seek out experiences that challenge your views. You may have to look in foreign cultures, literature, or even people who’s view point you disagree with. The point is not to adopt a new train of thought, but to disrupt the conventional way of thinking.

9. 5 Ways to Develop Independent Thought 3. Watch the process from a distance Leaving your normal life behind can give you the freedom to see issues from another perspective. In other words break your routine! This will allow you to see the your world from another perspective.

10. 5 Ways to Develop Independent Thought 4. Randomize your sensory inputs Instead of doing the same thing over and over try a new experience. Try new foods, talk to new people, and go to new places. This will take you out of you “comfort zone”

11. 5 Ways to Develop Independent Thought 5. Practice disbelief This is the hardest of the 5! “Instead of assuming that these “truths” are self evident, suspend judgment until you’ve have confirmed that there is reality behind the logic.” This does not mean go against what you truly believe.

12. A Thought to leave you with…. “If everyone is thinking alike, then somebody isn’t thinking.” George S. Patton

13. references http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10474322 http://www.pickthebrain.com/blog/5-ways-to-develop-independent-thought/ http://creatingminds.org/quoters/quoters_p.htm http://www.merriam-webster.com/