Critical Thinking

What is critical thinking?

Critical thinking is the intellectually disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying , analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating information gathered from observation , experience, reasoning , or communication as a guide to belief and action.

Bloom's taxonomy is a classification system used to define and distinguish different levels of human cognition. It is structured around six levels of cognitive processing , arranged in order of increasing complexity.

1. Remembering - recall relevant knowledge from long term memory.

2. Understanding - making sense of the material that we've learned.

3. Applying - use the knowledge gained in new ways.

4. Analyzing - the ability to break down information into its component parts and identify patterns and relationships.

5. Evaluating - making judgement based on a set of guidelines.

6. Creating - putting information in an innovative way.

Characteristics of critical thinking

    1) Active listening

    2) Curiosity

    3) Self-discipline

    4) Humility

Active listening

Active listening is a communication skill that involves fully concentrating on and understanding what another person is saying. It requires the listener to pay close attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues, such as tone of voice and body language in order to truly comprehend the message being conveyed. Active listening also involves showing empathy and responding appropriately to what speaker is saying, whether it be through nodding , asking clarifying questions or paraphrasing what was said. By actively listening individuals can improve their relationships and better understand the needs and perspectives of those around them. It is an important skill in both personal and professional settings, as it can lead to more effective communication, greater collaboration, and better problem-solving.

Curiosity

Curiosity is an essential human trait that drives us to explore, learn, and grow. It is the innate desire to understand the world around us and to seek out new information, experiences and perspectives. Curiosity fuels our imagination, creativity, and innovation and help us make sense of the complex and ever-changing world we live in. It also leads us to ask questions, challenge assumptions and think critically which are vital skills in personal and professional development. By embracing curiosity, we can expand our horizons, broaden our knowledge , and unlock new opportunities that we never thought possible.

Self-discipline

Self-discipline refers to the ability to control one's behavior, emotions, and thoughts in order to achieve a specific goals or maintain a certain standard of behaviors. It involves setting goals, making plans, and committing to taking actions to achieve those goals, even when it may be difficult or uncomfortable.

Self-discipline is a key trait that can help individuals achieve success in many areas of life, including personal and professional development, achievement, physical fitness, and overall well-being. It requires a willingness to delay gratification and make sacrifices in the present in order to reap greater rewards in the future.

Humility

Humility is the quality of being humble, model and respectful towards others. It involves acknowledging one's limitations and weaknesses, and recognizing the value and worth of others. A humble person does not seek to boast or elevate themselves above others, but instead approach life with a sense of openness, curiosity, and a willingness to learn from others.

Humility is an important trait that can foster healthy relationships, promote teamwork and collaboration, and enhance personal growth and development. It allows individuals to approach challenges with an open mind and a willingness to learn, rather than being defensive or resistant to feedback.