Critical Thinking: Problem Solving & Decision Making

Definition: The process of finding solutions to difficult or complex issues.
Steps in Problem Solving:
1. Identify the problem: Clearly define what the issue is.
2. Gather information: Collect relevant data and insights.
3. Generate options: Brainstorm possible solutions.
4. Evaluate options: Assess the feasibility and impact of each solution.
5. Choose a solution: Select the most appropriate option.
6. Implement the solution: Put your chosen solution into action.
7. Review the outcome: Analyze the effectiveness of the solution and make adjustments if necessary.

Definition: The process of making choices by identifying a decision, gathering information, and assessing alternatives.
Types of Decision Making:
- Rational Decision Making: Involves logical reasoning and systematic analysis.
- Intuitive Decision Making: Relies on gut feelings and instincts.
- Group Decision Making: Involves collaboration and consensus among multiple individuals.
Steps in Decision Making:
1. Define the decision: Understand what needs to be decided.
2. Gather information: Research and analyze relevant data.
3. Identify alternatives: List possible choices.
4. Weigh evidence: Evaluate the pros and cons of each alternative.
5. Choose among alternatives: Make the final decision.
6. Take action: Implement the chosen alternative.
7. Review the decision: Reflect on the outcome and learn from the process.

Importance: Critical for ensuring the credibility and reliability of information.
Criteria for Evaluation:
- Authority: Check the qualifications and expertise of the author or organization.
- Accuracy: Verify the information against other reliable sources.
- Objectivity: Assess for bias; consider whether the information is presented fairly.
- Currency: Ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant.
- Coverage: Evaluate the comprehensiveness of the information.
Methods:
- Cross-referencing: Compare multiple sources to confirm facts.
- Source Type: Distinguish between primary (original research) and secondary sources (interpretation of primary data).
- Citation: Look for proper attribution and references to support claims.

These notes serve as a concise overview of critical thinking, emphasizing problem solving, decision making, and the evaluation of sources.

Defined as the process of making choices when faced with different options.
Types of decision making include:
- Rational Decision Making: Based on logical reasoning and systematic evaluation.
- Intuitive Decision Making: Driven by gut feelings and instincts.
- Group Decision Making: Involves collaboration and building consensus among multiple people.
Steps include:
- Define the decision: Clearly understand what decision needs to be made.
- Gather information: Research relevant data to inform the decision.
- Identify alternatives: List possible options available.
- Weigh evidence: Analyze the pros and cons of each alternative.
- Choose among alternatives: Make a final selection based on evaluation.
- Take action: Implement the decision made.
- Review the decision: Reflect on the outcome and gather insights for future decisions.

Critical for ensuring the credibility and reliability of information.
Key criteria for evaluation include:
- Authority: Assess the qualifications and expertise of the author or organization.
- Accuracy: Verify information against other reliable sources for truthfulness.
- Objectivity: Check for bias and ensure information is presented fairly.
- Currency: Determine if the information is current and relevant.
- Coverage: Evaluate the comprehensiveness and depth of the information.
Methods for evaluation:
- Cross-referencing: Compare information from multiple sources to confirm accuracy.
- Source Type: Differentiate between primary sources (original research) and secondary sources (interpretation and analysis of data).
- Citation: Look for proper attribution to validate the information and claims presented.