Critical Minds: The Mystery Solvers Academy
Critical Minds: The Mystery Solvers Academy is an 8-week interactive class that teaches teens critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork through fun mystery-solving challenges. Students will develop key skills for analyzing evidence a
What's included
8 live meetings
6 hrs 40 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Each week, students will have a homework assignment that reinforces the skills and concepts learned in class. Homework will typically involve applying critical thinking to real-world situations, practicing problem-solving, and reflecting on the mysteries solved during the session.Certificate of Completion
1 after class completionClass Experience
Class Description: Critical Minds: The Mystery Solvers Academy is an 8-week interactive course designed to help teens develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a fun, engaging way. Students will dive into real-world mysteries, learning how to analyze clues, form hypotheses, and solve complex problems. As they work through each mystery, they’ll also enhance their ability to think quickly, reason ethically, and collaborate with peers—skills that are valuable for both school and life. This course prepares students for the challenges they’ll face in the real world by fostering logical reasoning and teamwork. Class Experience: Throughout this 8-week journey, students will engage in weekly mystery-solving challenges that test their ability to think critically, analyze evidence, and come up with creative solutions. Each class is structured around a unique case study, where students will: Analyze clues and work collaboratively to form theories Participate in discussions about logical fallacies, biases, and ethical dilemmas Learn how to think quickly and strategically to solve problems Reflect on real-world scenarios to better understand how critical thinking applies to everyday situations Classes are designed to be highly interactive. Expect a mix of: Group activities where students work together to solve puzzles Discussions to share insights and debate different solutions Hands-on challenges that encourage creative thinking Short presentations on critical thinking concepts like biases, evidence analysis, and problem-solving strategies Live Q&A where I’ll help clarify any questions and guide students through the thought process My teaching style is dynamic and collaborative, focusing on encouraging student involvement through problem-solving and group interactions. Rather than just lecturing, I’ll foster a student-centered environment where learners actively engage with the material, ask questions, and apply their thinking to real-world problems. I’ll provide feedback in real-time, guiding learners as they develop their critical thinking skills, while also fostering a supportive space for all students to share their ideas and collaborate. Expect fun, interactive sessions that balance learning with creativity, offering a well-rounded experience for students to become better problem solvers and analysts in the real world.
Learning Goals
Critical Thinking: Students will learn how to analyze situations, identify key information, and make well-reasoned decisions based on evidence and logical reasoning.Problem-Solving Skills: Students will develop the ability to approach complex problems creatively and logically, testing hypotheses and adjusting solutions as new information emerges.
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Critical Thinking - The Detective Mindset
Understand what critical thinking is and why it's important. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Problem Solving & Hypothesis Formation
Learn how to form hypotheses and test them. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Recognizing Bias and Fallacies
Learn to identify cognitive biases and logical fallacies. 50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Analyzing Evidence and Connecting the Dots
Improve skills in analyzing evidence and drawing logical conclusions. 50 mins online live lesson
Other Details
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
This class involves solving fictional mysteries that may include mild suspense or problem-solving scenarios, but there is no content that should be upsetting or scary. All case studies and discussions are designed to be age-appropriate for 14-18-year-olds. We will explore ethical dilemmas and biases in reasoning, but these topics will be handled sensitively and with respect for different viewpoints. There is no media content with official ratings used in the class. Additionally, the class does not require any third-party tools or accounts.
Teacher expertise and credentials
I have over 20 years of experience in education and professional development, working with students and adults in a variety of settings. I specialize in teaching critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Over the years, I have developed and facilitated workshops and training programs focused on helping individuals sharpen their decision-making abilities, think critically, and approach challenges creatively.
I have worked with teenagers in both academic and extracurricular environments, including coaching students on topics like resume writing, workplace etiquette, and soft skills. I also have a background in coaching and mentoring, where I have guided students in analyzing complex situations and making reasoned decisions.
This class combines my expertise in critical thinking with my passion for working with young learners to help them develop the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond. I’ve taught similar topics in professional development settings, and I enjoy making learning engaging, fun, and interactive for all students.Reviews
Live Group Course
$23
weekly1x per week, 8 weeks
50 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
1-12 learners per class
