Critical Thinking Case

We naturally think and much of our thinking is biased, uninformed, prejudiced and undisciplined based on the available information which may be limited.  In order to evaluate the information and to avoid failures, we should think critically. Recently, the term “critical thinking” has been widely popular and are of many definitions. In general, critical thinking is self-disciplined, self-monitored and self-corrective progress which helps critical thinker to enhance effective communication and problem solving.  

To become a critical thinking proficient, we have to learn how to think critically and how to practice in everyday life. We will examine the question number 11, Critical Thinking Assessment Practice Quiz (2010, p.3) “What should you NOT rely on when making a judgment call?” for example, this is multi-choice question with given four answers (a) intuition, (b) common sense, (c) gossip, and (d) past experience.  For me, this question is quite simple and the “gossip” is the right answer since in most cases no one can verify the sources of the gossip and no-body can assure whether the gossip as well as the information accompanied by or resulted from are free from unbiased motives, intentions, prejudices, distortion and omission. And does it work for certain purposes other than to provide information with objectivity and clarity for the judgment related? As long as these answers are still not in sight we should treat it as one of the identified hindrances to critical thinking and hence ignore it! However in contrast, the question number 20 (p.4) “Evidence shows that people who live in the Antarctic score higher on happiness surveys than those who live in Florida. Which is the best conclusion that can be drawn from this data?” is much more complicated. It surprised me when the correct answer was “Those in the Antarctic who scored high on a happiness survey probably like snow.” whereas my choice was made on “People in colder climates are happier than those in warmer climates.” Obviously, I was fooled when inferring from the statement with relying just in one word of “people”. The assumption of “people” as “all the people” was the major cause. This happens due to the failure to notice one applicable hindrance in place: ”Vagueness” which relates to the use of language as described in Table 2, page 10 of A Practical Guide to Critical Thinking, by Greg G. Haskin 2006. In order not to repeat the same I should be practicing more and aware of the consequences of imprecise claims based on vagueness whenever applicable.  

Critical thinking is interested in teaching from the primary schools to Universities because “Good critical thinking skills bring numerous benefits” (Alwali, 2011, para. 2). For me, critical thinking places me a higher emphasis on understanding materials of the papers instead of just memorizing them. It develops my ability to transfer learned content skills to real life and reasonably reflect on analyzing an issue. Thinking carefully and systemically helps me to clearly express my ideas and give my instructors a well thought out answer of assignments.

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