I agree with you,well put.
Laura,
In our fast paced culture many students have not developed the ability to stop and reflect on what some of the possible solutions to a problem might be. This reflective time is important because it helps to define and refine solutions and keeps the problem solver focused on successful outcomes.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think that a critical thinker is willing to spend time in thinking and in connecting the problem at hand to some previously held/learned information.
For example, I tell my students that an educated person makes and sees connections with information at hand and information stored. In this way, perhaps they can begin to understand or "see" the value of being focused on whatever they are doing--because one never knows when you will need that knowledge.
Nicole,
Key element in critical thinking. Patience is not a strong point in our culture today. Students want to use a formula to problem solve, complete the task immediately and not put forth any thinking in the process. Thank you for bringing up this important element.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think a characteristic of a critical thinker is patience. You cannot come up with an answer in 2 seconds and say that you really thought about it. Do not rush the process and give it the time it needs. You need patience with yourself to give you enough time to analyze your thoughts and ideas.
Theodore,
Well said. This is how a critical thinker should walk through the problem solving process. By touching on all of the components that you list a person will have a clear understanding of the problem and be able to offer solutions that have merit.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The first characteristic of a critical thinker is we have to be able to recognize the problem and be able to define it components. We then have to be able to search for solutions. Then analyze the different solutions and develop a plan of action that will aid in solving the problem. After we initiate the action that we determine will solve the problem, we have to evaluate our results and then determine if adjustments are necessary.
David,
My opinion is that I agree with you. Some individuals can think in reflective ways much easier than others. Some students like to be spoon fed formulas or models to solve problems because they don't have to think and it is easier. You are right about the need for content and examples (I use a lot of case studies.) to get them to see that almost every job is going to require some type of problem solving.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
They are curious, intuitive, creative, self-motivated, and non-conforming individuals.
Are critical thinkers born or created ? We can design our course to ask critical thinking type questions but the course also has to presented in a way that has critical thinking assignments and collaborative activities. Not everyone will in excel in this type of course especially if early on in there academic career they were not challenged to critically think. Whats your opinion on this matter?
Diane,
Your last sentence includes the essential elements needed for critical thinking. If critical thinkers work within these areas they are going to be able to come up with solutions to problems and grow in their career areas.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A critical thinker is one that does not accept things at face value. Questions are asked about the source of the information, the validity and credibility of the information. Common sense would be applied when making any decision regarding that information. The characteristics would include common sense, logical and inquisitive mind.
Tequilla,
Thank you for these steps to follow in developing the abilities of critical thinkers. Your steps are right on and will be valuable to your students once they are out in the field.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
A critical thinker is one who is not afraid to think outside of the box. They are eager to learn and open to fresh new viewpoints of the work they live in. A ciritical thinker is slow draw to conclusions. They are patient with the analyzing process, and enjoy feedback from others. A critical thinker takes in knowledge from various resources.
Maggie,
Three very important elements needed for critical thinking and you have listed all of them. Good way to approach a situation and then work through it to solution. If the steps are followed so will success.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
As a critical thinker one must ananalyze situations carefully by obtaining the right resources and being open mined. One must have a lot of patience.
Wendy,
Like this additional element needed for critical thinking. You make a very good point because without passion for what one is working on the solution may not be reached. Granted sometimes the actual work of problem solving may not be that exciting but being able to solve the problem and move forward with a project generates a lot of motivation and excitement.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Although I am in agreement with other posters here regarding the importance of patience, intelligence etc., I find that the most effective critical thinkers I've engaged with are also passionate about their subject and compassionate toward others. They are individuals who are able to see several different viewpoints and perspectives.
Christine,
Good point. Can you expand on how you see wise use of time fitting into critical or reflective thinking. Thanks for input on this.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Ali,
Good definition. This is how students should approach situations so they can become effective problem solvers.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I believe that being someone that uses their time wisely is the best critical thinker.
