I agree with your observation that a critical thinker must stay honest about his or her own limitations. I also think a critical thinkers should weigh the chances of cognitive dissonance coming into play.
Marcia,
Yes, this is the ideal. Good description.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
The characteristics of a critical thinker include determination of fact and truth through the scientific method using hypothesis,statistics,
examples and real life experiences through details to reach a conclusion with an open mind free of expectancy and confirmation bias.
Deb,
Well stated. These are definitely core characteristics for solid critical thinking.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
One of the biggest points is someone who will take the time to examine different sides of an issue and resist making snap judgments. This means the person is willing to keep his or her mind open to different perspectives and new information.
Michelle,
Excellent summary. Thank you for your well stated contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Critical thinkers are creative and independent thinkers who are not afraid to think outside the box. They are good listeners and reserve judgement until receiving all of the facts or information. They are willing to incorporate new ideas into their thinking.
Lisa,
Very succinct and accurate. Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
someone who can grasp the information and resolve the equasion logically.
Miriam,
In a nutshell, good statement. Thank you for sharing your insight.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
A critical thinker will thoroughly assess information before making a permanent decision.
Elsie,
Very good. You brought up a great many very valid points. It seems your main line of thought was the central theme that a critical thinker stays honest, curious and seeking truth beyond any bias that he or she may possess. Excellent post.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
A critical thinker is someone with vast knowledge base, who stays curious and analytical without any pre judgment. They are able to revise their conclusion and judgments when new evidence is available. They stay honest about their own limitations and in so doing remain curious and eager to absorb more knowledge
Diane,
Yes, these are two very improtant characteristics. Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
A critical thinker takes all their options into account and questions the validitity of a problem.
Heather,
Yes, taking time to assess all aspects in an important "critical" charateristic. Very good.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Sherri,
Very good. This is an excellent mini-lesson on Critical Thinking. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
A critical thinker is someone who is detail oriented, assesses all aspects of the situation at hand, takes their time and thinks things through. They don't jump to conclusions and they are open minded to all sides of the issue they are being faced with.
Critical thinkers are analyzers. It is important to develop students who analyze, look for details, read cues, look past the surface, read body language and examine good answers to problems. I always say, "Would you want an ER Doctor who did not have good critical thinking skills?"
In class we break the three words apart
Critical--means very important
Thinking--mental processes
Such an important skill to teach!!
Maria,
Yes, these attributes are definitely charateristics of successful critical thinkers. Continuous evaluation of any soultion as the individual actions are being implemented is powerful. Very good. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
