Critical Thinking and Research Topics Study Sheet

Critical Thinking, Reading, and Research

• Critical thinking, reading, and writing are interconnected; enhancing one strengthens the others.
• Reading in academic/business settings synthesizes information to connect facts, theories, and examples, leading to coherent writing.
• Facts vs. Opinions:
  • Proven facts are universally accepted truths; probable facts require evidence.
  • Opinions are personal judgments and can lead to misinformation if biases distort interpretations.
• Logic and Reasoning:
  • Inductive reasoning moves from specific observations to general conclusions; deductive reasoning starts with general statements to reach specific conclusions.
  • A four-step approach includes observing, forming hypotheses, making predictions, and verifying through further observation.
• Types of Information:
  • Reputable sources must be credible, accurate, sufficient, recognized by experts, and current.
  • Peer-reviewed literature undergoes rigorous evaluation for quality before publication.
• Using Library Resources:
  • UNE Library provides access to essential peer-reviewed journals and academic books, supported by guides for navigation.
• Reading Academic Articles:
  • Skim-read to familiarize with content, then evaluate quality, evidence, and clarity.

Writing: Process and Practice

• Clear writing is essential to avoid misunderstandings in academic and business contexts, preventing waste and financial loss.
• Tailor writing to specific audiences: academics need depth; business requires clarity and simplicity.
• Differences Between Academic and Business Writing:
  • Academic writing aims to persuade through expertise; business writing informs or persuades with straightforward language.
  • Structure differs: academic writing adheres to strict conventions, while business writing is usually more flexible.
• Plain English Characteristics:
  • Use simple, specific language, avoid jargon, and structure sentences for readability.
• The 4 Cs of Business Communication: Clarity, Conciseness, Consistency, and Correctness.

Understanding Groups and Teams

• Groups are informal collections; teams are formal with shared goals and interdependence.
• Types of teams include functional, cross-functional, project, and virtual, each with unique characteristics and challenges.
• Effective teamwork requires clear goals, relevant skills, mutual trust, commitment, good communication, negotiation skills, leadership, and support.
• Tuckman’s Model outlines stages of team development: forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning.
• Factors affecting team effectiveness involve structure, leadership behavior, member capability, cohesiveness, and diversity.

Intercultural Communication

• Culture influences perceptions and behaviors; levels include visible (observable), less visible (communication methods), and almost invisible (deep beliefs).
• Intercultural communication can lead to misunderstandings due to different cultural norms.
• High-Context vs. Low-Context Cultures:
  • High-context relies on context and non-verbal cues (e.g., Japan), while low-context is direct and explicit (e.g., USA).
• Barriers include language differences, non-verbal communication styles, perceptions of power, and cultural adaptation.
• Intercultural Competence involves: sensitivity to differences, acknowledging barriers, and a culture-general approach.
• Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions explore power distance, individualism vs. collectivism, uncertainty avoidance, masculinity vs. femininity, long-term vs. short-term orientation, and indulgence vs. restraint.

Meetings

• Productive meetings require a clearly defined agenda and expected outcomes.
• Functions of meetings include building social bonds, engagement, gathering input, problem-solving, and decision-making.
• Types of meetings are formal (structured, following rules) and informal (flexible, for quick updates).
• Roles in Meetings:
  • Chairperson sets agendas, conducts meetings, and maintains focus.
  • Secretary prepares documents, takes minutes, and manages logistics.
• Virtual meetings present challenges like tech management but allow greater connectivity.
• Effective meeting planning includes consideration of venue and equipment, with a clear agenda to maintain focus.
• Barriers to effective meetings involve poor leadership, personality clashes, and groupthink.

This study sheet covers the essential aspects of critical thinking, reading, and research. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of these skills, highlighting their importance in effective communication and idea articulation. Perfect for students looking to enhance their academic or business reading skills.