What is Critical Thinking
Critical thinking is the disciplined process of actively analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating information to reach a conclusion. It involves a series of principles that guide objective and rational decision-making.
Principles of Critical Thinking
Objective Rational Thinking
Objective Rational Thinking involves coming to conclusions objectively free from passion, prejudices, self-interests, and other forms of irrationality (Heard et al., 2020). This principle aims to ensure that findings are reasonable and that emotional bias is not a factor.
Checking Source Validity
Checking Source Validity takes into account the nature and accuracy of the information available. Part of this evaluation involves assessing the author’s credibility, the article’s source, and the evidence provided.
Considering Unconscious Bias
The weakness, of course, is having to keep up as a lone learner who navigates real-life situations involving both men and women, where others’ cultural perspectives and personal biases can influence their judgments (Heard et al., 2020). This principle promotes unbiased information processing, ensuring no one is favored or disadvantaged.
Avoiding Hasty Conclusions
Avoiding Hasty Conclusions refers to collecting and assessing all the available facts before concluding. This eliminates hasty decisions that may be made based on inadequate information or information-poor environments.
Skepticism
Doubting the information/data and not accepting it at face value. This principle is based on skeptical reasoning and seeks to pursue any issue under investigation up to a maximum level.
Application of Critical Thinking Principles to Personal Work
The absence data for my department revealed a worker who had reached a critical absence level, requiring formal action. The employee constantly produced high-quality work and had never missed a day of work. Before any official action was taken, data was gathered on absence reasons presented, trends, and performance. I set up a casual meeting for the employee to express her complaints. During our conversation, it became clear that the employee was despondent and struggling with a tough divorce. On numerous days, she had difficulty getting herself to the office. I recommended that she take some time off and get in touch with our employee assistance program, which was well received, and she received the appropriate amount of support. After receiving permission to return to work gradually, the employee could resume her previous level of productivity. Without applying critical thinking, the company might have lost a valuable employee who was in need of support and understanding at the time.
Applying Critical Thinking Principles to the Work of Others
When completing my CIPD assignments, I must present arguments supported by external authors. Hence, before taking on any information from another author, I will;
Assess Author’s Credibility
Assessing Author Credibility includes the author’s credentials, background, and previous work in this field of study. I also consider whether the source’s author has any conflicts of interest (Kurniawati et al., 2020). I ensure that I only use sources that pass the CRAAP test.
Evaluating Research Methods and Sources
When reviewing works that incorporate research findings, I critically assess the methodology utilized in the study to verify its validity and alignment with the research objectives. Additionally, I analyze the credibility of the sources cited, particularly in studies that rely on secondary data, to ensure their relevance and contribution to the discourse (Elder & Paul, 2020).
Checking Claims and Presenting Facts
I often fact-check assertions by comparing them with other credible sources of information. Hereby, I attempt to Identify and differentiate old and new knowledge in the presentation of information. For instance, while appraising a peer’s proposal on a new training program in my organisation, I scrutinized sources of information, data collection techniques, and evidence behind recommended action plans. That way, I can be confident that facts and reasons inform the proposal developed.
