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Critical Thinking
[Evaluation of Critical Thinking]

Critical thinking: analysis, synthesis, judgment, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Critical thinking is demonstrated within a sequential process involving solving a problem or making decisions relating to achievement of goals. Every analytical part of this process involves making judgments critical about the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, relevance, objectivity and reliability of the information available to the problem solver or decision maker.

The process involves the use of several mental processes including analysis and synthesis of information as listed below:

Skills

Problem Solving

Decision-Making

Definition

1. Recognize and define a problem to be solved.

1. Identify and define the goal to be achieved and/or the opportunity that presents itself.

Analysis

2. Identify root causes of the problem.

2. Analyze the opportunity presented and the relevant issues to be addressed.

Analysis

3. Identify criteria for evaluating possible solutions.

3. Identify criteria for evaluating possible strategies and actions to achieve the goal(s).

Synthesis

4. Identify possible solutions.

4. Identify possible strategies and actions against criteria.

Analysis

5. Evaluate possible solutions against established criteria.

5. Evaluate possible strategies and actions against established criteria.

Decision

6. Select "best" solutions.

6. Select "best" set of strategies and actions.

7. Develop a detailed plan to implement the solution(s) chosen.

7. Develop a detailed plan to implement the strategies and actions chosen.

8. Evaluate the effectiveness of the solution and ideally identify opportunities for improvement.

8. Evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies and actions, and identify opportunities.
 
Copyright © 2008 Gerald M. Myers
Last modified:09/05/2009 01:52:14 PM