Topic: Young Learners | Critical Thinking in EFL
Presenter: Maria Di Carluccio
Presentation details
This study originates from PATHS, a project developed through the collaboration between INDIRE philosopher researchers, the Italian Ministry of Education and the General Directorate for School Regulations.
Initially conceived for high schools, PATHS, Philosophical Approach to Thinking Skills, was later extended to technical and vocational institutes due to its positive impact on logical reasoning, problem solving and cooperative learning. The project promotes critical thinking and the development of autonomous and responsible citizens (Flint, 2021), in line with the Italian Ministry of Education guidelines on philosophy and citizenship education (2017).
Students work collaboratively starting from the analysis of a single word, creating cross-curricular connections and final digital outputs through a student-centred methodology. Within this framework, PATHS4ENGLISH applies these principles to EFL education through inclusive and bottom-up learning processes. Students improve communication skills, lexical awareness and self-confidence in English, while teachers act as facilitators rather than the sole source of knowledge (Suneetha, 2020).
The methodology integrates brainstorming, cooperative learning, flipped classrooms, peer education and problem solving, fostering meaningful learning experiences (Bonwell & Eison, 1991).
The project proved particularly effective during the Covid-19 lockdown, enhancing teamwork, social interaction and soft skills through online workshops and collaborative activities. Its democratic and inclusive value was recognised by the Council of Europe in Strasbourg in 2022.
The project now represents a potential international model for innovative, inclusive and critical EFL education across different cultural contexts.
About the presenter
IMAGE TO BE CHANGED
- Currently English teacher working for the Regional School office of Piedmont in charge of internationalization
- Lecture and trainer in seminars and webinars regarding Critical thinking in Education and ELT
- Piedmont teachers’ trainer in European Projects (Accreditation, KA1, KA2)
Collaboration with:
- INDIRE National Agency researchers regarding the philosophical approach
- Council of Europe relating to the thinking skills approach.
- INDIRE National Agency Erasmus + as evaluator for INDIRE National Agency
Studies
- Degree in Foreign languages (1993),
- Degree in Italian language and literature (1996)
- Teacher of English since 1996
- Specialization in special need education (2004)
- Master in European project managing (Brussels-2014)
- Second-Level Master’s Degree in School Leadership and Management, (Rome -2025)
Fond of:
Theatre to promote inclusion and well-being to face controversial, psychological and social issues at schools.