What is Critical Thinking?There are many definitions to: What is Critical Thinking? That’s to be expected. Critical thinking encompasses much of what we do when using our brains. Phrases are also used such as: rational thinking, focused thinking, cognitive process, reflective thought and informed opinions. Other phrases such as: analyzing and evaluating information to derive a judgment are also used. These are all good and descriptive words and phrases for What is Critical Thinking. However, let’s ask the $100,000 question: What are the Benefits of Critical Thinking for you? There are three answers to that question. 1. To make informed decisions — Making informed decisions is essential in your life. You have to decide on everything from where to have tomorrow’s lunch, to what career to pursue. The more you are able to tap into your experiences and knowledge the better your decisions are. 2. To understand — Your ability to comprehend is another essential element in your life. You are exposed to a wide array of information on television, the Internet books, magazines and people. • Understanding leads to opinions and decision making. For example, by reading about, and comprehending the positions of two political opponents you are better equipped to make an informed decision on how to vote. 3. To create, invent and discover — The ability to create, invent, and discover are human traits that exist in all of us. We create beautiful art, writing, music and more. We invent things like the light bulb, the computer and rockets. We discover things like E= MC2, penicillin, and DNA. • The ability to create, invent and discover all require decision making. It is an integral part of each process. There are decisions in choosing a project to pursue. Whatever you pursue there are decisions along the path.
What is the Definition of Critical Thinking? Decision making is the common thread that weaves through the most useful things critical thinking will do for you. That is why "What is Critical Thinking" can be defined as:The ability to make and carry out informed decisions by efficiently utilizing your lifetime knowledge, experience, common sense, reasoning, intuition, feelings, and confidence Critical thinking requires the use of self-discipline and self-examination. The rewards are great freedom and the ability to complete projects, achieve objectives and answer questions with confidence. When you take charge of your mind using critical thinking and make sound decisions, you take charge of your life. Critical thinking is a skill. It will be strengthened by anyone willing to stretch and grow. In other words, the brain acts like a muscle. If used, it strengthens. If shunned, it withers. The Lack of Critical Thinking Skills Today there is a lack of critical thinking skills in the workplace and in personal lives. Many people don’t know how to critically think effectively even though they are capable of becoming strong critical thinkers. Guidance, patience and practice are needed to learn how.Critical thinking skills are not prevalent in our society simply because we don’t teach: What is critical thinking? enough. Where Do We Go From Here? People can learn critical thinking skills on their own through trial and error. However, trial and error takes much longer than if properly taught and coached. It is painfully clear that most people aren’t taught critical thinking skills in a formal manner, or for that matter, in any manner. Many don't even know: What is Critical Thinking. Critical thinking skills can be learned at any age though good books and from informed teachers, coaches, mentors and parents who care. The younger the students, the better, however, we all need to know: What is Critical Thinking. To help fill the void, this website has been created.
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Thinking Skills
& other Resources
Practical Critical Thinking
For Students 14-21
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