What approach is likely to discourage critical thinking in students?

Promoting rote memorization without context is an approach that significantly discourages critical thinking in students. Rote memorization involves memorizing information without understanding its meaning or application, which limits students' ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information. When students focus solely on memorizing facts, they miss opportunities to engage with the material in a meaningful way, hindering their ability to develop higher-order thinking skills necessary for critical analysis and problem-solving.

In contrast, approaches like encouraging debate and discussion, facilitating group projects, and implementing inquiry-based learning actively promote critical thinking. These strategies engage students in deeper cognitive processes by allowing them to explore concepts, question assumptions, collaborate with peers, and discover knowledge through exploration. This engagement supports the development of critical thinking skills, which are essential for students' academic success and overall intellectual growth.