Critical thinking definition
‘the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgement’
RED Model
The RED Critical Thinking Model defines how to go about understanding critical thinking and helps you to develop these skills. It is made up of three components by components of: Recognising Assumptions, Evaluating the Arguments and finally, Drawing Conclusions.
Recognising Assumptions allows people to separate facts and opinions, meaning that they have a clearer understanding of the facts, and what the opinion of the individual conveying this information is.
Evaluating Arguments allows people to analyse the information presented to them clearly and accurately.
People who possess the draw conclusions skills can bring lots of information together and can draw conclusions from the facts and figures.
Paul-Elder Critical Thinking Framework
The Paul-Elder Critical Thinking Framework has three components:
1- The elements of thought (reasoning)
2- The intellectual standards that should be applied to the elements of reasoning
3- The intellectual traits associated with a critical thinker that comes from the application of the other two elements
The elements of thought
– Point of View (perspective, orientation)
– Purpose (goal, objective)
– Question at issue (problem, issue)
– Information (data, facts, observations, experiences)
– Interpretation and Interference (conclusions, solutions)
– Concepts (theories, definitions)
– Assumptions (taking for granted)
– Implications and Consequences
Source:
https://www.criticalthinking.org/ctmodel/logic-model1.htm#
Universal Intellectual Standards
– Clarity – Breadth
– Accuracy – Logic
– Precision – Significance
– Relevance – Fairness
– Depth
Intellectual Traits
Using the standards of thinking results in development of:
– Intellectual Humility
– Intellectual Integrity
– Intellectual Courage
– Intellectual Perseverance
– Intellectual Empathy
– Confidence in Reason
– Intellectual Autonomy
– Fair-mindedness Characteristics of a Critical Thinker
– Ask important questions and problems, creating them clearly
– Asses relevant information, using ideas to interpret it effectively
– Come to well-reasoned conclusions and solutions, testing them against criteria
– Think open-mindedly within systems of thought, recognising and assessing assumptions, implications and consequences
– Communicate effectively with others when solving problems
Source:
https://louisville.edu/ideastoaction/about/criticalthinking/resources
How can I apply this at work?
I can use these critical thinking models, along with critical thinking itself to think outside of the box, to offer alternatives/innovative solutions and to add value to the L&D team. Having knowledge of the basics of critical thinking will allow me to apply this at work when I am suggesting solutions or implementing solutions.
I will particularly use the ‘Elements of Thought’ model to break down information that I am given by others to enable myself to logically work towards solutions and to aid my understanding of stakeholders’ opinions, thoughts, information and assumptions. Using this will allow me to focus on outcomes and impacts (B8 in the standard). I will also be able to use this to enable myself to present a range of relevant and innovative solutions, logically and with credibility, to gain buy-in from senior stakeholders (S3).
I will also be able to work towards B3- a desire to understand and experiment with new ideas and techniques, identifying areas for self and wider development, improvements.
David Oxenham 