Higher order thinking is not simply pondering random thoughts. Students should learn how to approach an issue, ask questions, examine assumptions, synthesize and analyze the subject and make a reasoned conclusion. These skills need not be taught directly in the students' most challenging courses; students can learn to think critically and analytically in virtually every college classroom. In addition, interactions with faculty and their peers provide opportunities to develop higher order thinking skills.
Reading is the basis of all thinking and decision-making processes. College classes require a lot of reading, even in the sciences. Absorb new knowledge when you read, and read with critical eyes. Determine if your reading makes sense. Relate prior reading, class discussions and your personal experience when you read your class assignments. The more critically you read, the more refined your thinking skills will be. When you find topics that interest you, research the topic. Ask your professors for interesting articles or books. Make use of the college library and request inter-library loans.
Asking questions stimulates your brain and facilitates your thinking skills. Children are naturally very curious, and they constantly ask "why." As people age, many are afraid to ask questions. However, when people questions, they learn more and faster. Get your curiosity back in college and start asking questions. Do not limit yourself to homework questions; ask questions related to a subject that you want to learn more about. Follow up with more questions. Take advantage of the experts in different disciplines at your college.
Take classes from different disciplines if your schedule allows, even if you have to audit the class. When you take classes from different disciplines, you can learn how to think from various angles. For example, you can learn abstract higher order thinking from mathematics and scientific analysis from lab science classes. Take classes where the professor encourages students to think, discuss and present their ideas. The most important part is that you need to take classes that interest you.