This week, I discovered a very interesting logic model discussing the
elements of critical thinking.
The Foundation for Critical Thinking created an excellent resource and
reference representing the elements of critical thinking. They maintain “Eight
basic structures are present in all thinking: Whenever we think, we think for a purpose within a point of view based on assumptions leading to implications and consequences. We use concepts, ideas and theories to interpret data, facts, and experiences
in order to answer questions, solve
problems, and resolve issues.”
The italics are my addition and highlight the eight elements of critical
thinking described in the article.
I encourage readers to explore this link. The design and ability to
hover over a topic to get more information is clean, clever and useful. The
content is even better.
The eight elements mentioned above are essential to think well and
provide a systematic model to problem solving and approach to decisions. The
model also suggests “intellectual standards” such as accuracy, breadth,
clarity, depth, fairness, logic, precision, relevance, significance, and other
standards “that may be applied to the eight elements on a contextual basis.”
Philosophy.hku.hk maintains:
“Critical
thinking is the ability to think clearly and rationally about what to do or
what to believe. It includes the ability to engage in reflective and
independent thinking. Someone with critical thinking skills is able to do the
following:
·
understand the logical connections between ideas
·
identify, construct and evaluate arguments
·
detect inconsistencies and common mistakes in
reasoning
·
solve problems systematically
·
identify the relevance and importance of ideas
·
reflect on the justification of one's own
beliefs and values”
Critical thinking, and the capacity for independent thought
is a valued skill for global leaders. As I reflect on my own communications, learn
more of best practices, and develop plans to improve my own communications, understanding
and applying the elements of critical thinking is a key component of my communication improvement plan.
References:
