Critical Thinking Basics

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Questions and Answers

What is critical thinking according to the Oxford English Dictionary?

The objective, systematic, and rational analysis and evaluation of factual evidence

Who needs to be a critical thinker?

Everyone, regardless of profession or field

What is the first step in critical thinking?

What am I being asked to believe or accept?

Why is critical thinking important?

It helps to form a judgement on a subject based on evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of rating the evidence on a 0-10 scale?

To determine the validity and strength of the evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the outcome of the critical thinking process?

A conclusion based on evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of business problem-solving questions?

Analyzing a problem or situation and responding logically Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of correcting a mistake at work?

Fixing an error made by a colleague Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Devil's advocate in a group?

To argue and challenge the others to discuss more Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of overcoming a scheduling/staffing shortage?

Rerouting tasks and adjusting deadlines to meet goals Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the activities listed, such as DEBATE and INVENT?

To promote creative thinking and group work Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of taking initiative at work?

Stepping in when another team member overlooked or missed something important Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Gatekeeper in a group?

To facilitate discussion and ensure everyone participates Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of resolving a conflict with a coworker?

Negotiating a solution that satisfies both parties Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of convergent thinking in problem-solving?

It increases performance speed and efficiency. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of reasoning is most relevant to solving an algebraic equation?

Scientific reasoning Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of divergent thinking?

To consider all possible options and encourage flexibility. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of not using critical thinking skills in problem-solving?

Decision overload Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of critical thinking in the context of problem-solving?

Evaluating information and making informed decisions Signup and view all the answers

In what way can divergent thinking contribute to creative problem-solving?

By encouraging flexibility and out-of-the-box thinking Signup and view all the answers

Why might an employer ask analytical interview questions to a job applicant?

To evaluate their ability to think critically and solve problems Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using convergent and divergent thinking in combination?

It develops stronger, more creative concepts. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

What is Critical Thinking?

Critical thinking is the objective, systematic, and rational analysis and evaluation of factual evidence to form a judgement on a subject or issue.

Who Needs to be a Critical Thinker?

Anyone who needs to make informed decisions, solve problems, and evaluate information critically.

Steps to Critical Thinking

Identify the claim or question being asked
Evaluate the evidence supporting the claim
Consider alternative interpretations of the evidence
Rate the evidence and alternatives on a 0-10 scale based on validity and strength
Identify assumptions and biases
Determine what additional evidence is needed to evaluate the alternatives
Draw conclusions based on the evidence

Skills Needed for Critical Thinking

Identifying biases
Critical analysis
Observation
Good communication
Inference
Evaluation
Identification
Research

Cognitive Approaches

Convergent thinking: increases performance speed, narrows problems down, and prevents decision overload
Divergent thinking: increases flexibility, considers all possible options, and encourages out-of-the-box thinking

Forms of Critical Thinking

Verbal reasoning
Probabilistic reasoning
Scientific reasoning

Developing Critical Thinking Skills

Practice analytical thinking
Be inquisitive and follow evidence
Know about metacognition

Problems to be Solved

Correcting mistakes at work
Improving process efficiency
Boosting company performance
Finding new data to guide decisions
Taking initiative
Overcoming delays and technical issues
Resolving customer issues and conflicts

Activities to Improve Critical Thinking

Debate
Invention
Creation
Forming cartoons
Creating riddles

Roles in Group Discussions

Group leader
Gatekeeper
Devil's advocate
Dominant member

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