Critical thinking is the process that involves logic, creativity, problem-solving, and decision-making through skillful analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of information by applying consistent standards to reach a well-defined and well-informed decision (Weissberg, 2013). This definition emphasizes the importance of critical thinking in all disciplines of life as it helps to determine whether a source provides authentic information, evaluates research bias, responds to arguments, considers alternative points of view, and emphasizes a self-aware as well as objective approach. In essence, it is an ability to effectively, skillfully, and actively analyze information so that a rational judgement can be formed to strengthen arguments and conclusions. However, there is no single way an individual can think critically as the information depends on the type of source and the information that is needed but systematically engaging with sources can help focus on the authority, credibility, purpose, and accuracy of the information.
The phenomenon of critical thinking encompasses a range of cognitive and meta-cognitive skills that can be refined to enable individuals to make sound decisions and conclusions based on analysis and evaluation of complex problems. The skillsets to draw logical inferences including observation, analysis, evaluation, interpretation, inferences, and deduction are needed to work through the process of critical thinking in diverse fields of life (Thonney & Montgomery, 2019). Moreover, the skillsets that are required to hone and enhance critical thinking include effective communication skills, collaboration capabilities, and problem-solving abilities so that an individual can reason logically and identify underlying assumptions. The essential component of critical thinking is the reasoning skill that enables individuals to form hypotheses and inferences based on the evidence. It allows individuals to seek out new information, question preconceived assumptions, and remain open-minded by acknowledging differences of opinions so that flexibility in considering alternative perspectives and solutions to different problems can contribute to enhancing critical thinking (Defining Critical Thinking, n.d.).
References
Defining Critical Thinking. (n.d.). https://www.criticalthinking.org/template.php?pages_id=766
Thonney, T., & Montgomery, J. C. (2019). Defining critical thinking across disciplines: An analysis of community college faculty perspectives. College Teaching, 67(3), 169–176.
Weissberg, R. (2013). Critically thinking about critical thinking. Academic Questions, 26(3), 317.
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