Learning, Fast and Slow

Abstract

In Thinking, Fast and Slow (2011) Kahneman describes two modes of thinking: System 1 and 2. System 1 operates quickly, automatically, and unconsciously, drawing on our vast reservoir of stored knowledge to decide what should or should not be done in any situation. System 2 is a slower, more deliberate process, requiring us to step back from our immediate circumstances to analyze them in more depth. Kahneman praises System 1 for its efficiency in dealing with life’s ordinary problems, but cautions against relying on System 1 when faced with more complex problems. In this paper, we reason that the essence of effective college teaching is moving students from System 1 to System 2 thinking. We describe both systems in detail, illustrate how System 1 thinking applied to a System 2 problem can be troublesome, and then propose an educational strategy to elevate students to a System 2 frame of mind.

Keywords:

• Confirmation bias
• heuristics
• wicked problems