Critical Thinking Corporate Training Materials Module One Getting

Critical Thinking Corporate Training Materials

Module One: Getting Started We live in a knowledge based society, and the more critical you think the better your knowledge will be. Critical Thinking provides you with the skills to analyze and evaluate information so that you are able to obtain the greatest amount of knowledge from it. The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing. Walt Disney

Workshop Objectives Components of critical thinking Non-linear thinking Revise perspective Problem solving abilities

Module Two: Components of Critical Thinking Critical thinking is akin to the study of logic. Critical thinking relates to how we make decisions and use our judgment. Critical thinking is more than just thinking about thinking or metacognition. It is also about how we take action. Thinking is the talking of the soul with itself. Anonymous

Applying Reason Knowledge “What follows what” Processes Emotional bias

Open Mindedness Relevant evidence Revise a current understanding Alternatives

Analysis • Discriminate information • Cognitive domain • Involves a process

Logic Rules Valid conclusions Facts

Case Study A group of physicists have been researching matter and motion for some years No physical activity happens by chance All chance occurrences are random events. No random events are physical activities

Module Two: Review Questions 1. Reasoning occurs when we use our _____ of one thing, to determine if another thing, process, or statement is true. a) Virtues b) Themes c) Knowledge d) Conclusions 2. What is a syllogism? a) Two or more premises used to come to a valid conclusion b) A statement that says things occur in relation to each other based on a certain order c) A statement that says if the antecedent is true, then the following consequence must also be true d) A statement of probability

Module Two: Review Questions 3. What does it mean to be open-minded? a) b) c) d) Refuting new information without examining its validity Being unreceptive to new information Willingness to accept new information even when an opinion has been formed An unwilling to accept new evidence that opposes opinions 4. Which scholar/philosopher encouraged open-mindedness and questioned traditional rhetoric 2400 years ago? a) b) c) d) Pliny the Elder Descartes Emerson Socrates

Module Two: Review Questions 5. In what learning domain does analysis fall in? a) Psychomotor b) Logic c) Cognitive d) Affective 6. Which of the following is not one of the three factors to consider when analyzing new information? a) Argument b) Evidence c) Environment d) Language

Module Two: Review Questions 7. What is logic? a) Rules b) Conclusions c) Premises d) A branch of philosophy 8. What is a premise? a) A statement of fact or value b) Rule c) Conclusion d) Bias

Module Two: Review Questions 9. What had the physicists been researching for years? a) Matter only b) Motion only c) Matter and motion d) None of the above 10. The scientists came to the conclusion that: “No ____ activity happens by chance. ” a) Mental b) Physical c) Spiritual d) Psychological

Module Two: Review Questions 1. Reasoning occurs when we use our _____ of one thing, to determine if another thing, process, or statement is true. a) b) c) d) Virtues Themes Knowledge Conclusions Inductive reasoning involves making observations and using the information to draw a conclusion or form a hypothesis. Inductive reasoning is used in the scientific method. 2. What is a syllogism? a) Two or more premises used to come to a valid conclusion b) A statement that says things occur in relation to each other based on a certain order c) A statement that says if the antecedent is true, then the following consequence must also be true d) A statement of probability A syllogism is when two or more premises are used to come to a valid conclusion. The premises are factual statements used for this kind of logical reasoning.

Module Two: Review Questions 3. What does it mean to be open-minded? a) b) c) d) Refuting new information without examining its validity Being unreceptive to new information Willingness to accept new information even when an opinion has been formed An unwilling to accept new evidence that opposes opinions Educators consider one of the main criteria to learning is being open-minded. An open-minded person is receptive to new information and does not allow preconceptions to inhibit their ability to receive new input. 4. Which scholar/philosopher encouraged open-mindedness and questioned traditional rhetoric 2400 years ago? a) b) c) d) Pliny the Elder Descartes Emerson Socrates lived about 2400 years and was a great philosopher. He challenged the rhetoric of his time, especially confusing and barren language.

Module Two: Review Questions 5. In what learning domain does analysis fall in? a) b) c) d) Psychomotor Logic Cognitive Affective Learning occurs in three domains: cognitive, affective, and psychomotor. Analysis is within the Cognitive domain. 6. Which of the following is not one of the three factors to consider when analyzing new information? a) b) c) d) Argument Evidence Environment Language When listening to new information, Socratic process considers the argument, evidence, and language. The environment is not one of the three factors.

Module Two: Review Questions 7. What is logic? a) b) c) d) Rules Conclusions Premises A branch of philosophy Logic involves rules, premises, and conclusions. However, it is not these things. It is the branch of philosophy that states the rules for reaching valid conclusions. 8. What is a premise? a) b) c) d) A statement of fact or value Rule Conclusion Bias Premises are facts. They are statements that allow a logical conclusion to be inferred.

Module Two: Review Questions 9. What had the physicists been researching for years? a) b) c) d) Matter only Motion only Matter and motion None of the above The case study clearly states this fact. 10. The scientists came to the conclusion that: “No ____ activity happens by chance. ” a) b) c) d) Mental Physical Spiritual Psychological After years of research, the scientists concluded: “No physical activity happens by chance. All chance occurrences are random events. No random events are physical activities. ”

Module Three: Non-Linear Thinking There are two ways to work out problems vertically and laterally. This is called linear or vertical thinking. However, often we tend to not line up the premises in a normal step-bystep fashion. When we approach a problem in a different order, we are using non-linear thinking. Neither a closed mind nor an empty one is likely to produce much that would qualify as effective reasoning. R. S. Nickerson

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone Different perspective Area set apart Stretch your thinking

Don’t Jump to Conclusions Acquire information Know the facts

Expect and Initiate Change Be the change you wish to see Nothing stays the same

Being Ready to Adapt Protect yourself by changing Adaptation is a survival skill

Case Study You are a high school, mathematics teacher and you want your students to improve their reasoning skills You assign word problems Most of the students just are not getting it Understand that coming up with the right answer is not the most important goal

Module Three: Review Questions 1. What is another term for non-linear thinking a) Vertical thinking b) Cyclic thinking c) Lateral thinking d) Tangential thinking 2. What is a zone? a) Delineated area b) Demarcation c) Type of thinking d) A line

Module Three: Review Questions 3. All of the following can help prevent us from jumping to conclusions except for: a) Gathering all of the facts b) Reviewing the premises c) Ignoring the premises d) Evaluating all the pertinent information 4. Premises help all the following except to: a) Lead to conclusions b) Develop an argument c) Provide evidence d) Manipulate language

Module Three: Review Questions 5. What is an obstacle to change? a) Fear b) Adaptation c) Courage d) Open-mindedness 6. What is a facilitator of change? a) Lack of knowledge b) Readiness c) Limited resources d) Status quo

Module Three: Review Questions 7. What is the first step adaptation? a) Awareness b) Controlling fear c) Assessing new information d) Letting go 8. All of the following are techniques to assess new information except for: a) Splitting it up b) Re-arranging it c) Denying it d) Re-interpreting it

Module Three: Review Questions 9. What type of teacher is in the case study? a) Science b) Social Studies c) Health d) Math 10. One of the tasks of the teacher is to change the students’ way of thinking from ___ to ____. a) Linear to Non-Linear b) Abstract to Concrete. c) Non-Linear to Linear d) Concrete to Abstract

Module Three: Review Questions 1. What is another term for non-linear thinking a) b) c) d) Vertical thinking Cyclic thinking Lateral thinking Tangential thinking Non-linear thinking is also called lateral thinking. Linear thinking is sometimes referred to as vertical thinking. 2. What is a zone? a) b) c) d) Delineated area Demarcation Type of thinking A line A zone is an area set apart or delineated in some way. In critical thinking, sometimes we have to get out of the areas or zones we are comfortable.

Module Three: Review Questions 3. All of the following can help prevent us from jumping to conclusions except for: a) b) c) d) Gathering all of the facts Reviewing the premises Ignoring the premises Evaluating all the pertinent information To prevent jumping to conclusions, we must take time to review all pertinent information. In the terms of logic, this means reviewing the premises. 4. Premises help all the following except to: a) b) c) d) Lead to conclusions Develop an argument Provide evidence Manipulate language Premises help to develop arguments, provide evidence, and lead to conclusions. Premises are not meant to manipulate language.

Module Three: Review Questions 5. What is an obstacle to change? a) b) c) d) Fear Adaptation Courage Open-mindedness Fear is an obstacle to change. There are many other obstacles including resources and knowledge. 6. What is a facilitator of change? a) b) c) d) Lack of knowledge Readiness Limited resources Status quo A great facilitator of change is readiness. To improve the readiness level of employees, sometimes it’s helpful to initiate change gradually.

Module Three: Review Questions 7. What is the first step adaptation? a) b) c) d) Awareness Controlling fear Assessing new information Letting go The first step in adapting is to recognize that a change is necessary. Awareness of the environment, unknown or situation comes even before fear develops. 8. All of the following are techniques to assess new information except for: a) b) c) d) Splitting it up Re-arranging it Denying it Re-interpreting it Adaptation requires recognizing and being aware of changes. Denying new information is not a technique used to assess new information.

Module Three: Review Questions 9. What type of teacher is in the case study? a) Science b) Social Studies c) Health d) Math The case study clearly states this. 10. One of the tasks of the teacher is to change the students’ way of thinking from ___ to ____. a) Linear to Non-Linear b) Abstract to Concrete. c) Non-Linear to Linear d) Concrete to Abstract The case study clearly states this.

Module Four: Logical Thinking Logical thinking is a process which involves steps. The four major steps of logical are: 1) asking the right questions 2) organizing data 3) evaluating the information 4) drawing conclusions Reasoning is simply a matter of getting your facts straight. B. F. Anderson

Ask the Right Questions Ask many questions What are the premises? Anything missing?

Organize the Data First, know the premise Make connections Make a diagram

Evaluate the Information Valid True Belief bias Confirmation bias

Draw Conclusions Infer only what the data implies Ensure inferences are consistent Identify underlying assumptions

Case Study Your group has is to mix chemicals until a color change occurs You are given four beakers of colorless liquids labeled 1 -4 You are given a flask labeled X, which contains the reagent How will you determine which combination of chemicals will produce pink?

Module Four: Review Questions 1. Why is asking the right questions important? a) Because questioning is the last step in the logic process b) Because questions are based on conclusions c) Since premises do not provide any information, you have to ask questions d) Because asking the right questions will lead to solutions 2. What is one question that logical thinkers should ask? a) What are the premises? b) How long will the process take? c) Who is involved? d) What are the risks?

Module Four: Review Questions 3. All of the following terms describe convergent structure in organizing data, except for: a) Supporting b) Reinforcing c) Supplemental d) Variances 4. What is an advantage of using a tree diagram? a) Disperse information b) Shows connections c) Makes information more complex d) Verbal representation

Module Four: Review Questions 5. What is confirmation bias? a) Using premises to support other premises b) Using premises to obtain information c) Using premises to support what you already believe d) Using premises to refute a claim 6. Validity of data is? a) Absolute truth b) Probability c) Lack of support d) Truth based on premises

Module Four: Review Questions 7. What is one risk involved in drawing conclusions? a) Draw more from the premises b) Make a valid conclusion c) Analyze thoroughly d) Determine reasonable probability 8. When drawing conclusions thinkers should identify? a) Underlying motives b) Key factors c) Possible outcomes d) Underlying assumptions

Module Four: Review Questions 9. After mixing chemicals, the students are supposed to see what color? a) Blue b) Green c) Pink d) Yellow 10. The problem in the case study is an example of whose theory? a) Freud b) Erikson c) Piaget d) Dewey

Module Four: Review Questions 1. Why is asking the right questions important? a) b) c) d) Because questioning is the last step in the logic process Because questions are based on conclusions Since premises do not provide any information, you have to ask questions Because asking the right questions will lead to solutions Asking questions is the first step in the logic process. Logical thinkers ask the right question to lead to solutions. 2. What is one question that logical thinkers should ask? a) b) c) d) What are the premises? How long will the process take? Who is involved? What are the risks? Logical thinkers should begin with asking many questions? The most important question they should ask is, “What are the premises? ” The other answer questions are also important and may be included in the premises.

Module Four: Review Questions 3. All of the following terms describe convergent structure in organizing data, except for: a) b) c) d) Supporting Reinforcing Supplemental Variances Convergent structure begins at a starting point and provides premises that support each other. Variances would not appear in a convergent structure. 4. What is an advantage of using a tree diagram? a) b) c) d) Disperse information Shows connections Makes information more complex Verbal representation Tree diagrams are graphical devices that make it easier to interpret information. They show the connections and relationships.

Module Four: Review Questions 5. What is confirmation bias? a) b) c) d) Using premises to support other premises Using premises to obtain information Using premises to support what you already believe Using premises to refute a claim Confirmation bias is when you use a premise to support what you already believe. It is used to confirm opinions. 6. Validity of data is? a) b) c) d) Absolute truth Probability Lack of support Truth based on premises The validity is based on the premises. A conclusion is considered valid if it’s true because its premises are true.

Module Four: Review Questions 7. What is one risk involved in drawing conclusions? a) b) c) d) Draw more from the premises Make a valid conclusion Analyze thoroughly Determine reasonable probability Logical thinkers should be careful to not draw more from the premises than what is there. They also should be careful not to infer too little. 8. When drawing conclusions thinkers should identify? a) b) c) d) Underlying motives Key factors Possible outcomes Underlying assumptions When drawing conclusions, logical thinkers should do three things. They should infer only what the data implies, check for consistencies, and identify underlying assumptions.

Module Four: Review Questions 9. After mixing chemicals, the students are supposed to see what color? a) b) c) d) Blue Green Pink Yellow The case study clearly states this. 10. The problem in the case study is an example of whose theory? a) b) c) d) Freud Erikson Piaget Dewey Piaget is a psychologist and philosopher who have created a theory regarding cognitive development.

Module Five: Critical Thinkers (I) What are some characteristics of critical thinkers? Are there innate abilities that make some individuals better at thinking critically? In module five and six, we will examine eight characteristics of critical thinkers. The four characteristics we will discuss in Module five are: • Active Listening • Curiosity • Self-Discipline • Humility The ear says more than the tongue. W. S. Graham

Active Listening The best communicators are active listeners Engaged with the speaker Not formulating a response

Be Curious Selfimprovement Spark curiosity Rising a question

Be Disciplined Evaluate and reflect Self-guided Aware of your environment

Be Humble Open mind Receptive Not filtered through ego

Case Study You are on a management team to reduce the number of returns for defective software No particular department wants to take responsibility The problem must be solved, the company is losing revenue and customers

Module Five: Review Questions 1. Active listening is: a) Engaged listening b) Judging what the speaker is saying c) Formulating your own thoughts d) Selective listening 2. One common obstacle to active listening is: a) Formulating own thoughts when listening b) Speakers who talk too much c) Speakers who use complex language d) Good concentration

Module Five: Review Questions 3. Critical thinking is sparked by: a) Thinkers b)A match c) Curiosity d) Debate 4. Questions must be followed by: a) Actions b)Premises c) Facts d) Claims

Module Five: Review Questions 5. Which qualities are often associated with self-discipline? a) Stubbornness and resolve b) Narrow-mindedness and judgment c) Reasoning and rationale d) Impatience and lack of perseverance 6. Why is discipline important to critical thinking? a) Critical thinking requires technical skills b) Critical thinking is difficult to master c) Critical thinking requires the individual to rely on others d) Critical thinking requires the individual to use their reasoning skills

Module Five: Review Questions 7. Humility is: a) Being of modest opinion of one’s own importance b) Being overconfident c) Having an inflated ego d) Being inconsiderate of others 8. All of the following qualities help promote humility in the critical thinker except for: a) Self-discipline b) Confidence c) Receptivity d) Arrogance

Module Five: Review Questions 9. The case study is about learning how to reduce the number of returns on what type of product? a) Software b) Clothing c) Hair products d) Furniture 10. How are the defective products affecting the company? a) It is losing revenue only b) It is losing revenue and customers c) It is losing customers only d) Its stock price is dropping

Module Five: Review Questions 1. Active listening is: a) b) c) d) Engaged listening Judging what the speaker is saying Formulating your own thoughts Selective listening Active listening is a mark of good communication. It involves the listener being engaged. 2. One common obstacle to active listening is: a) b) c) d) Formulating own thoughts when listening Speakers who talk too much Speakers who use complex language Good concentration A common obstacle to engaged listening include the listener formulating his or her own thoughts when listening. Another common obstacle is for the listener to think judge what the speaker is saying.

Module Five: Review Questions 3. Critical thinking is sparked by: a) b) c) d) Thinkers A match Curiosity Debate Critical thinking and self-improvement are sparked by curiosity. Curiosity is also an impetus for learning. 4. Questions must be followed by: a) b) c) d) Actions Premises Facts Claims In terms of addressing curiosity, critical thinkers should follow questions by actions. Premises, facts, and claims are also important but action is the most appropriate answer.

Module Five: Review Questions 5. Which qualities are often associated with self-discipline? a) Stubbornness and resolve b) Narrow-mindedness and judgment c) Reasoning and rationale d) Impatience and lack of perseverance The critical and logical thinker needs self-discipline to make good decisions. Reasoning and rationale are logical thinking qualities also associated with selfdiscipline. 6. Why is discipline important to critical thinking? a) Critical thinking requires technical skills b) Critical thinking is difficult to master c) Critical thinking requires the individual to rely on others d) Critical thinking requires the individual to use their reasoning skills The critical thinker needs discipline because they must rely on their own understanding and skills. Critical thinking is involved but it is not difficult to master.

Module Five: Review Questions 7. Humility is: a) Being of modest opinion of one’s own importance b) Being overconfident c) Having an inflated ego d) Being inconsiderate of others Humility is related to being open-minded and willing to accept new information. This characteristic is very important in critical thinking. 8. All of the following qualities help promote humility in the critical thinker except for: a) b) c) d) Self-discipline Confidence Receptivity Arrogance Humility is the opposite of arrogance. The other answer choices will promote humility.

Module Five: Review Questions 9. The case study is about learning how to reduce the number of returns on what type of product? a) b) c) d) Software Clothing Hair products Furniture The case study clearly states this. 10. How are the defective products affecting the company? a) b) c) d) It is losing revenue only It is losing revenue and customers It is losing customers only Its stock price is dropping The case study clearly states this.

Module Six: Critical Thinking (II) In the previous module, we began to examine characteristics of critical thinkers. In this module, we will continue to look at more characteristics to help us improve our critical thinking capabilities. Four additional topics are presented in this module. They are: • Seeing the big picture • Objectivity • Using your emotions • Being self-aware Man is but a reed, the most feeble thing in nature, but he is a thinking reed. Blaise Pascal

Seeing the Big Picture Laying out the account Determining a hierarchy Interpreting convergences and divergences Convergences reinforce events Divergences are points that do not reinforce events

Objectivity Deliberate Evaluate information Thinking

Using Your Emotions • Professionals need empathy • Allow emotions to add, not cloud judgment

Being Self-Aware Feelings Opinions Assumptions

Case Study You are a financial officer in a medium size company The owner of the company uses his intuition when making decisions Initially, the owner’s way of doing business worked As the financial officer you are concerned about this recent decisions

Module Six: Review Questions 1. In evaluating the big picture, what are convergences? a) Variances b) Similarities c) Differences d) Non-reinforcing information 2. In evaluating the big picture, what are divergences? a) Variances b) Consistent information c) Complementary information d) Reinforcing information

Module Six: Review Questions 3. What does it mean to be objective? a) To be biased b) To judge based on opinions c) Make external, non-opinionated observations d) To base observations on person feelings 4. What is heuristics? a) Rules or strategies for organizing information b) Rules or strategies for problem solving c) Process of evaluation d) Way learners memorize information

Module Six: Review Questions 5. What emotion is important for professionals when working with others? a) Empathy b) Anger c) Impatient d) Aggressiveness 6. What is a problem with emotions and decision making? a) Clouds an individual’s judgment b) Makes it easier to understand the facts c) Clarifies the premises d) Makes problem solving less complex

Module Six: Review Questions 7. What does it mean to be self-aware? a) To be aware of what is affecting others b) For others to provide advice c) For others to direct thinking d) To be aware of our own thoughts and feelings 8. What is the starting point for critical thinking? a) The theories of past thinkers b) Information cited in the media c) Textbooks d) Our own thoughts and feelings

Module Six: Review Questions 9. How long has the company been in business? a) 10 years b) 5 years c) 7 years d) 15 years 10. How many new cars / hybrids would the owner like to purchase in the next three months? a) 10 b) 20 c) 40 d) 100

Module Six: Review Questions 1. In evaluating the big picture, what are convergences? a) b) c) d) Variances Similarities Differences Non-reinforcing information Convergences are reinforcing information that helps thinkers see the big picture. Convergences are similarities. 2. In evaluating the big picture, what are divergences? a) b) c) d) Variances Consistent information Complementary information Reinforcing information Divergences are variances in the information being given. They are the differences that sometimes give us additional problem solving clues.

Module Six: Review Questions 3. What does it mean to be objective? a) b) c) d) To be biased To judge based on opinions Make external, non-opinionated observations To base observations on person feelings Objectivity means to make external, non-opinionated observations. Objectivity is freedom from bias. 4. What is heuristics? a) b) c) d) Rules or strategies for organizing information Rules or strategies for problem solving Process of evaluation Way learners memorize information Heuristics are strategies used to solve problems. Sometimes, we refer to heuristics as general rules of thumb.

Module Six: Review Questions 5. What emotion is important for professionals when working with others? a) b) c) d) Empathy Anger Impatient Aggressiveness Professionals need empathy, especially managers and those working in care giver occupations. Empathy allows individuals to relate to the experiences of others as if their own. 6. What is a problem with emotions and decision making? a) b) c) d) Clouds an individual’s judgment Makes it easier to understand the facts Clarifies the premises Makes problem solving less complex Emotions can interfere with effective decision making. When exercised inappropriately, emotions can place blinders on the individual and cloud judgment.

Module Six: Review Questions 7. What does it mean to be self-aware? a) b) c) d) To be aware of what is affecting others For others to provide advice For others to direct thinking To be aware of our own thoughts and feelings Self-awareness is an important criteria for critical thinkers. Self-awareness means to be aware of our own thoughts and feelings. 8. What is the starting point for critical thinking? a) b) c) d) The theories of past thinkers Information cited in the media Textbooks Our own thoughts and feelings Our own thoughts are the starting point for critical thinking. We use our own opinions and assumptions to understand new information and draw conclusions.

Module Six: Review Questions 9. How long has the company been in business? a) 10 years b) 5 years c) 7 years d) 15 years The case study clearly states this. 10. How many new cars / hybrids would the owner like to purchase in the next three months? a) 10 b) 20 c) 40 d) 100 The case study clearly states this.

Module Seven: Evaluate the Information A big challenge in the process of critical thinking is how to evaluate information. We have already looked at some steps in evaluating information during the process of logic. In this module, we will delve deeper into evaluation. The best critical thinkers are those people, as Winston Churchill noted, who capable of gleaning through information that may be unclear or conflicting. True genius resides in the capacity for evaluation of uncertain, hazardous, and conflicting information. Winston Churchill

Making Assumptions are arguments No evidence Mentally held

Watch out for the Bias Cannot eliminate Preconceived opinions Use objectivity to oppose bias

Ask Clarifying Questions Asking the right questions is important Acquire more information Other questions will arise

SWOT Analysis Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats

Case Study Your boss wants to implement an employee recognition program spamming a twelve-month period He wants some form of recognition to take place every month What responsibilities and timeline will you follow?

Module Seven: Review Questions 1. What is an assumption? a) A statement in which no proof or evidence is provided b) A fact c) A state of evidence d) The proofs made to assert a claim 2. An assumption that is not clearly stated is an: a) Explicit statement b) Truth c) Valid point d) Implied statement

Module Seven: Review Questions 3. What is a function of confirmation bias? a) To refute existing assumptions b) To support existing assumptions c) To validate new information d) To help us understand others’ ideas 4. What is the opposite of bias? a) Subjectivity b) Evaluation c) Observation d) Objectivity

Module Seven: Review Questions 5. Clarifying questions do what? a) Reveal opinions b) Help the thinker acquire more information c) Delineate details d) Help critical thinkers be less objective 6. What is one type of clarifying question discussed in this module? a) Factual b) Opinion c) Generic d) Rhetorical

Module Seven: Review Questions 7. What do the S and W represent in SWOT analysis? a) Subjective, Weak b) Subjective, Wide c) Strengths, Wide d) Strengths, Weaknesses 8. What do the O and T represent in SWOT analysis? a) Opposite, Trial b)Opponent, Type c) Opportunities, Threats d)Opportunities, Types

Module Seven: Review Questions 9. The boss would like to implement an employee recognition program spanning what time period? a) 18 months b) 2 years c) 3 months d) 12 months 10. At the end of the employee recognition period, what would the boss like to award to an outstanding employee? a) Trophy b) Company logo items c) Paid time off d) Plaque

Module Seven: Review Questions 1. What is an assumption? a) b) c) d) A statement in which no proof or evidence is provided A fact A state of evidence The proofs made to assert a claim An assumption is statement in which no proof or evidence is provided. Assumptions can be mental or verbal. 2. An assumption that is not clearly stated is an: a) b) c) d) Explicit statement Truth Valid point Implied statement An assumption that is clearly stated is an explicit statement. One that is not clearly stated is an implied statement.

Module Seven: Review Questions 3. What is a function of confirmation bias? a) b) c) d) To refute existing assumptions To support existing assumptions To validate new information To help us understand others’ ideas One problem with bias is it can influence our conclusions. Confirmation bias is when we use new information to confirm or support existing ideas or assumptions. 4. What is the opposite of bias? a) b) c) d) Subjectivity Evaluation Observation Objectivity Critical thinkers can over bias by being objective. Objectivity does not take into account our own opinions while bias does.

Module Seven: Review Questions 5. Clarifying questions do what? a) b) c) d) Reveal opinions Help the thinker acquire more information Delineate details Help critical thinkers be less objective Clarifying questions can help critical thinkers think more objectively. They can also help thinkers acquire more information. 6. What is one type of clarifying question discussed in this module? a) b) c) d) Factual Opinion Generic Rhetorical There many types of clarifying questions. In this module, we discussed generic and specific clarifying questions.

Module Seven: Review Questions 7. What do the S and W represent in SWOT analysis? a) b) c) d) Subjective, Weak Subjective, Wide Strengths, Weaknesses SWOT analysis is an effective evaluation tool for managers. The “S” and “W” in SWOT analysis stands for strengths and weaknesses. 8. What do the O and T represent in SWOT analysis? a) b) c) d) Opposite, Trial Opponent, Type Opportunities, Threats Opportunities, Types The SWOT chart can be used by any professional or anyone wishing to analyze a course of action or a possible solution. The O and T in SWOT analysis stands for opportunities and threats.

Module Seven: Review Questions 9. The boss would like to implement an employee recognition program spanning what time period? a) b) c) d) 18 months 2 years 3 months 12 months The case study clearly states this. 10. At the end of the employee recognition period, what would the boss like to award to an outstanding employee? a) b) c) d) Trophy Company logo items Paid time off Plaque The case study does not mention awarding company logo items or paid time off. It does, however mention awarding a plaque to the section of the department that has performed the best and a trophy to an outstanding employee.

Module Eight: Benefits of Critical Thinking We have already determined why critical thinking is important. We know in particular that critical thinking helps us make better decisions and to rationally apply information. While there are many benefits of critical thinking, in this module, we will examine only four. They are: • Being more persuasive • Better communication • Better problem solving • Increased emotional intelligence Life consists of what a man is thinking of all day. Ralph Waldo Emerson

Being More Persuasive Influence others Accept your ideas

Better Communication Analogies and metaphors More persuasiveness

Better Problem Solving Better decisions Cognitive processes Logic

Increased Emotional Intelligence Selfawareness Selfmanagement Social awareness Relationship management

Case Study Your team of cardiovascular nurses has been assigned to develop some patient education material Patient population is primarily comprised non. English speakers Develop education on how to lower the risks of a heart attack How will you design and implement training for these patients?

Module Eight: Review Questions 1. What does it mean to be persuasive? a) Promoting discord b) Having influence over others c) Causing disagreement d) Not being convincing 2. All of the following enhance persuasiveness except for: a) Empathy b) Deliberation c) Clearly expressing our ideas d) Illogical reasoning

Module Eight: Review Questions 3. What does clear communication and persuasiveness have in common? a) They both involve deliberation b) They express complex ideas c) They express simple ideas d) They take a long time to master 4. All of the following are steps in clear communication except for: a) Telling the listeners relevant information b) Using context to clarify the meaning c) Avoid being unnecessarily redundant d) Embellishing information or giving inaccurate information

Module Eight: Review Questions 5. How does critical thinking improve problem solving? a) Both use logic b) It involves analysis c) Both are complex d) It involves questioning 6. Which of the following is a feature of means-analysis? a) Uses hints b) Uses brainstorming c) Breaks down the problem d) Often involves a contradictory component

Module Eight: Review Questions 7. What is emotional intelligence? a) Being aware of our opponents views b) Being self-aware c) Ability to assess and control our emotions and the emotions of others d) Ability to vicariously experience what others are feeling 8. What is the first step in raising emotional intelligence? a) Use humor to diffuse situations b) Determine what the questions are c) Connect with others d) Calm down and reduce any feelings of being overwhelmed

Module Eight: Review Questions 9. What type of nurses is mentioned in the case study? a) b) c) d) Cardiovascular Medical-Surgical Acute Care Ambulatory Care 10. The nursing team will be presenting to how many patients at the health forum? a) b) c) d) 10 30 25 15

Module Eight: Review Questions 1. What does it mean to be persuasive? a) b) c) d) Promoting discord Having influence over others Causing disagreement Not being convincing The persuasive quality is the ability to influence others. A person who is persuasive is convincing and able to get others to agree with his or her ideas. 2. All of the following enhance persuasiveness except for: a) b) c) d) Empathy Deliberation Clearly expressing our ideas Illogical reasoning Persuasiveness involves empathy, deliberation, and clearly expressing our ideas. Illogical reasoning does not typically enhance persuasiveness.

Module Eight: Review Questions 3. What does clear communication and persuasiveness have in common? a) b) c) d) They both involve deliberation They express complex ideas They express simple ideas They take a long time to master Communication and persuasiveness are thoughtful processes. They both involve deliberation. 4. All of the following are steps in clear communication except for: a) b) c) d) Telling the listeners relevant information Using context to clarify the meaning Avoid being unnecessarily redundant Embellishing information or giving inaccurate information Clear communication involves telling the truth. Speakers should avoid embellishing information or giving inaccurate information.

Module Eight: Review Questions 5. How does critical thinking improve problem solving? a) b) c) d) Both use logic It involves analysis Both are complex It involves questioning Both critical thinking and problem solving involve our logic skills. They are similar processes, so as we improve our critical thinking, we improve our problem solving skills. 6. Which of the following is a feature of means-analysis? a) b) c) d) Uses hints Uses brainstorming Breaks down the problem Often involves a contradictory component The means analysis is one way problem solving strategy discussed in this module. It involves breaking the problem down. The other answer choices are other strategies.

Module Eight: Review Questions 7. What is emotional intelligence? a) b) c) d) Being aware of our opponents views Being self-aware Ability to assess and control our emotions and the emotions of others Ability to vicariously experience what others are feeling Emotional intelligence is a powerful communication tool. It is the ability to assess and control our own emotions and the emotions of others. 8. What is the first step in raising emotional intelligence? a) b) c) d) Use humor to diffuse situations Determine what the questions are Connect with others Calm down and reduce any feelings of being overwhelmed The first step in raising emotional intelligence is to first calm and reduce any feelings of being overwhelmed. Then, assess what emotions are underlying.

Module Eight: Review Questions 9. What type of nurses is mentioned in the case study? a) b) c) d) Cardiovascular Medical-Surgical Acute Care Ambulatory Care The case study clearly states this. 10. The nursing team will be presenting to how many patients at the health forum? a) b) c) d) 10 30 25 15 The case study clearly states this fact.

Module Nine: Changing Your Perspective The interesting thing about perspective is that everyone has one. Earlier in this course, we learned how important having an open mind is in critical thinking. One aspect of openmindedness we learn is that it makes us receptive to other viewpoints. Everyone sees drama from his own perspective. Jean-Marie Le Pen

Limitations of Your Point of View Closed mind Bias Limited point of view

Considering Others Viewpoint Opinions Views Recognize the benefits

Influences on Bias Interpreting information How information is framed Factual information

When New Information Arrives Organization schema Which role new information plays Compartmentalizes information

Case Study Ronnie owns a spa and salon and she has developed a loyal client base She had an incident where a customer came into the spa to receive a facial and a microdermabrasion The front desk staff explained the procedures and the risks, which included skin irritation The client is upset because her face is still red. What should Ronnie do?

Module Nine: Review Questions 1. What is a problem with a limited viewpoint? a) It involves objectivity b) It easily accepts new information, c) It involves bias d) It is curious 2. How can we change our viewpoint? a) Remove cognitive constraints or blinders b) Consider only one viewpoint c) Hold onto preconceived views d) Over analyze new information

Module Nine: Review Questions 3. Considering the viewpoint of others helps do all of the following except for: a) Be empathetic b) See the big picture c) Be more objective d) Be more biased 3. The reason we have difficulty seeing others viewpoint is: a) We are looking at the big picture b) We are overwhelmed with information c) We infer more from the premises than what’s there d) We are overly concerned with our own views

Module Nine: Review Questions 5. What is an influence on bias? a) Hypothetical questions b) Clarifying questions c) Numerical data d) Factual information 6. The way to overcome the factor influencing bias is: a) To review data carefully b) To double check premises c) To accept information at face value d) To remember hypothetical information is just hypothetical and not facts

Module Nine: Review Questions 7. For critical thinkers, new information needs to be: a) Organized b) Made more complex c) Ignored d) Critiqued 8. One way to organize new information is to: a) Store on a computer b) Analyze it c) Place in schema d) File in a folder

Module Nine: Review Questions 9. What type of business does Ronnie own? a) Dog Kennel b) Restaurant c) Bakery d) Spa and salon 10. What type of phone call did Ronnie receive from a client? a) Service issue b) Business suggestion c) Recognition of an outstanding employee d) Question about directions to the business

Module Nine: Review Questions 1. What is a problem with a limited viewpoint? a) b) c) d) It involves objectivity It easily accepts new information, It involves bias It is curious Recall that critical thinkers attempt to reduce their bias. A limited viewpoint interferes having an open mind and increases our bias. 2. How can we change our viewpoint? a) b) c) d) Remove cognitive constraints or blinders Consider only one viewpoint Hold onto preconceived views Over analyze new information To change our viewpoint, we have to be able to see others point of view. This act requires removing cognitive constraints or blinders.

Module Nine: Review Questions 3. Considering the viewpoint of others helps do all of the following except for: a) b) c) d) Be empathetic See the big picture Be more objective Be more biased Considering the viewpoints of others increase our objectivity and empathy. It aids us in seeing the big picture, but it does not make us more biased. 3. The reason we have difficulty seeing others viewpoint is: a) b) c) d) We are looking at the big picture We are overwhelmed with information We infer more from the premises than what’s there We are overly concerned with our own views The reason we have difficulty seeing others views is we are usually overly concerned with our own viewpoints. This interferes with our being open minded.

Module Nine: Review Questions 5. What is an influence on bias? a) b) c) d) Hypothetical questions Clarifying questions Numerical data Factual information Researchers have found that hypothetical questioning influences bias. The other answer choices are things that help reduce bias. 6. The way to overcome the factor influencing bias is: a) b) c) d) To review data carefully To double check premises To accept information at face value To remember hypothetical information is just hypothetical and not facts Hypothetical information is not necessarily factual. To overcome influences it may have on bias, it’s helpful to remember that the information is simply hypothetical.

Module Nine: Review Questions 7. For critical thinkers, new information needs to be: a) b) c) d) Organized Made more complex Ignored Critiqued New information needs to be organized. Organizing new information helps to process it 8. One way to organize new information is to: a) b) c) d) Store on a computer Analyze it Place in schema File in a folder One to organize new information is to place it in schema. Schemas are mental organization tools.

Module Nine: Review Questions 9. What type of business does Ronnie own? a) b) c) d) Dog Kennel Restaurant Bakery Spa and salon The case study clearly states this. 10. What type of phone call did Ronnie receive from a client? a) b) c) d) Service issue Business suggestion Recognition of an outstanding employee Question about directions to the business Ronnie owns a spa and salon. A client had previously visited the business for a facial. Although the client was informed that her face would be red sometime after the procedure, she called the company after having a red face for two days.

Module Ten: Problem Solving A major function of critical thinking is it allows us to solve problems. Problems then essentially consist of the initial state and a goal state. All possible solution paths leading to the goal state are located in the problem space. Some researchers say that problem solving has three primary stages: 1. Preparation or familiarization 2. Production 3. Judgment and evaluation We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them. Albert Einstein

Identify Inconsistencies Cognitive dissonance Discrepancies Natural tendency to eliminate them

Trust Your Instincts Natural intuitive power Key piece Paired with trial and error

Asking Why? Always dig deeper Explore possibilities

Evaluate the Solution(s) Pros vs. Cons Assign weights to each criteria Prioritize the criteria

Case Study A team of account managers need to implement a better system to track their sales. Leads on the computer do not match what the managers’ report The sales team has been trying to work with customer service and billing on this issue Account managers and their team lead have decided that they need a task force to solve the problem.

Module Ten: Review Questions 1. What is cognitive dissonance? a) Variances in attitudes and beliefs b) Mental patterns c) Complementary information d) Convergences 2. What is one way to identify inconsistencies? a) Analyze information only once b) Take information in large chunks c) Process information quickly d) Use objectivity to see variances

Module Ten: Review Questions 3. All of the following coupled with intuition make a creative process, except for: a) Trial and error b) Informed guesses c) Brainstorming d) Strictly delineated processes 4. Instincts are defined as: a) Natural intuitive power b) Excessive emotions c) Physical capabilities d) Cognitive processes

Module Ten: Review Questions 5. Being presented with information is not enough, critical thinkers must also: a) Follow up b) Ask questions c) Listen carefully d) Use technology 6. Questioning helps the critical thinker: a) Remain shallow b) Explore possibilities c) Keep a narrow view d) Remain biased

Module Ten: Review Questions 7. What is one step in evaluating solutions? a) Review the requirements b) Develop a plan c) Prioritize the tasks d) Rate the proposed solutions using the criteria 8. What kind of chart can we use to evaluate solutions that we discussed in this module? a) Venn diagram b) Tree diagram c) T-chart d) Y-chart

Module Ten: Review Questions 9. What type of system did the account managers want to create? a) One that better tracks attendance b) One that better tracks the demographics of their clients c) One that better tracks the amount of vacation time each has d) One that better tracks their sales 10. What is the first issue mentioned in the case study? a) The number of leads verbally reported does not match the number of leads shown on the computer b) Sales are promised but the transactions aren’t completed until weeks or months later c) Many account managers are taking vacation time that they have not accrued d) Tardiness is a problem among the account managers

Module Ten: Review Questions 1. What is cognitive dissonance? a) b) c) d) Variances in attitudes and beliefs Mental patterns Complementary information Convergences Cognitive dissonance are inconsistencies. They are variances in attitudes and beliefs. 2. What is one way to identify inconsistencies? a) b) c) d) Analyze information only once Take information in large chunks Process information quickly Use objectivity to see variances One way to identify inconsistencies is to use objectivity to see variances. Critical thinkers should also process information clearly and recheck it if necessary.

Module Ten: Review Questions 3. All of the following coupled with intuition make a creative process, except for: a) b) c) d) Trial and error Informed guesses Brainstorming Strictly delineated processes Intuition coupled with trial and error, informed guesses and brainstorming can lead to a creative process. Processes are helpful in problem solving, but not strictly delineated processes. 4. Instincts are defined as: a) b) c) d) Natural intuitive power Excessive emotions Physical capabilities Cognitive processes Instincts are natural intuitive power. They are innate characteristics we are born with and that help us in problem solving.

Module Ten: Review Questions 5. Being presented with information is not enough, critical thinkers must also: a) b) c) d) Follow up Ask questions Listen carefully Use technology Critical thinkers must always have an inquisitive mindset. They should not settle for new information given, but ask questions. 6. Questioning helps the critical thinker: a) b) c) d) Remain shallow Explore possibilities Keep a narrow view Remain biased Questioning is a continual process. Critical thinkers should use questions to dig deeper and explore possibilities.

Module Ten: Review Questions 7. What is one step in evaluating solutions? a) b) c) d) Review the requirements Develop a plan Prioritize the tasks Rate the proposed solutions using the criteria Evaluation involves making a chart, developing criteria, and prioritizing criteria. It also involves rating the proposed solutions using the criteria. 8. What kind of chart can we use to evaluate solutions that we discussed in this module? a) b) c) d) Venn diagram Tree diagram T-chart Y-chart We can use many graphical tools to evaluate information or solutions. In this module, we discussed the T-chart.

Module Ten: Review Questions 9. What type of system did the account managers want to create? a) b) c) d) One that better tracks attendance One that better tracks the demographics of their clients One that better tracks the amount of vacation time each has One that better tracks their sales The case study clearly states this. 10. What is the first issue mentioned in the case study? a) The number of leads verbally reported does not match the number of leads shown on the computer b) Sales are promised but the transactions aren’t completed until weeks or months later c) Many account managers are taking vacation time that they have not accrued d) Tardiness is a problem among the account managers There are two problems mentioned in the case study. The second is that sales are promised but the transactions aren’t completed until weeks or months later.

Module Eleven: Putting It All Together We have learned many new skills for logic and critical thinking. Now, we need to learn how to combine these new skills. A skill is only beneficial if it is easy to apply. In this module, we will in particular learn how to: • Retain your new skills • Reflect and learn from mistakes • Always ask the right questions • Practice critical thinking Happiness comes from when we test our skills toward some meaningful purpose. John Stosse

Retaining Your New Skills Develop a schema Thinking about thinking Practice

Reflect and Learn From Mistakes Whenever possible Reflect back How you interact

Always Ask Questions • Be inquisitive • Learning is sparked by questions • Questions lead to answers

Practicing Critical Thinking Organize your techniques Creative thinking Schemas

Case Study Retailers realize the economy is still recovering, and have been pulling out the stops. A team of retailers in Austin pulled together the past season to tackle the problem They wanted to encourage local shopping You were on that team and part of the planning included a brainstorming session

Module Eleven: Review Questions 1. What is metacognition? a) Study of “thinking about thinking” b) Study of cognitive domains c) Study of speed reading d) Study of emotions 2. What is the most effective way to retain skills? a) To use them infrequently b) To take material from a course and file it away c) To talk about them once d) To practice them regularly

Module Eleven: Review Questions 3. Critical thinkers should reflect on: a) Mundane activities b) Major decisions c) Routine tasks d) Minor activities 4. Managers should reflect on: a) Interactions with employees b) Routine tasks c) Reporting duties d) Procedures

Module Eleven: Review Questions 5. What is reciprocal peer questioning? a) Asking yourself questions b) Asking authorities and experts questions c) Asking peers questions and receiving their answers d) Seeking employee input 6. What is generic questioning? a) Questions that can apply in a variety of contexts b) Questions that have to do with how something is produced c) Questions that relate to the details d) Questions that relate to the overall process

Module Eleven: Review Questions 7. What is a schema? a) Way of organizing information b) Fact c) Logic category d) Way of applying logic 8. All the following factors relate to critical thinking except: a) Curiosity b) Empathy c) Intuition d) Close-mindedness

Module Eleven: Review Questions 9. Where is the business in the case study located? a) Austin b) Dallas c) Houston d) San Antonio 10. What is the name of the brainstorming session? a) Oh Christmas Tree b) Stop the Grinch from Getting Christmas c) The Twelve Days of Christmas d) Silent Night

Module Eleven: Review Questions 1. What is metacognition? a) b) c) d) Study of “thinking about thinking” Study of cognitive domains Study of speed reading Study of emotions Metacognition literally means thinking about thinking. It is the study of how we process thoughts. 2. What is the most effective way to retain skills? a) b) c) d) To use them infrequently To take material from a course and file it away To talk about them once To practice them regularly The best way to retain skills and to improve them is to practice them regularly. Also, teaching others and reading information on the subject is helpful.

Module Eleven: Review Questions 3. Critical thinkers should reflect on: (Big decisions) a) b) c) d) Mundane activities Major decisions Routine tasks Minor activities Critical thinkers should take the time to reflect on major decisions. They should look for what went well and for the challenges. 4. Managers should reflect on: (interactions) a) b) c) d) Interactions with employees Routine tasks Reporting duties Procedures Managers should reflect on interactions with everyone they come into contact with on a daily basis. They should especially reflect on interactions with employees.

Module Eleven: Review Questions 5. What is reciprocal peer questioning? a) b) c) d) Asking yourself questions Asking authorities and experts questions Asking peers questions and receiving their answers Seeking employee input Reciprocal peer questioning involves asking peers questions and receiving their input. It is a useful questioning strategy when reviewing information. 6. What is generic questioning? a) b) c) d) Questions that can apply in a variety of contexts Questions that have to do with how something is produced Questions that relate to the details Questions that relate to the overall process Generic questions are great for critical thinkers because they objective. They are questions that can apply in a variety of contexts.

Module Eleven: Review Questions 7. What is a schema? a) b) c) d) Way of organizing information Fact Logic category Way of applying logic We can aid memorization by placing information into schema. Schemas are categories or ways we organize information. 8. All the following factors relate to critical thinking except: a) b) c) d) Curiosity Empathy Intuition Close-mindedness Critical thinking is an active process involving curiosity, empathy and intuition. It also requires open-mindedness.

Module Eleven: Review Questions 9. Where is the business in the case study located? a) Austin b) Dallas c) Houston d) San Antonio The case study clearly states this. 10. What is the name of the brainstorming session? a) Oh Christmas Tree b) Stop the Grinch from Getting Christmas c) The Twelve Days of Christmas d) Silent Night The case study clearly states this.

Module Twelve: Wrapping Up Although this workshop is coming to a close, we hope that your journey to improve your Critical Thinking skills is just beginning. Please take a moment to review and update your action plan. This will be a key tool to guide your progress in the days, weeks, months, and years to come. We wish you the best of luck on the rest of your travels! All our dignity lies in thought. Blaise Pascal

Words from the Wise Alison King Henry Ward Beecher Rudolf Arnheim: • Good questioners are good thinkers. • All words are pegs to hang ideas on. • All perceiving is also thinking, all reasoning is also intuition, all observation is also invention.