CRITICAL THINKING &
PROBLEM SOLVING
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Problem solving and critical thinking refers to the ability to use knowledge, facts, and data to effectively solve problems. This doesn't mean you need to have an immediate answer, it means you have to be able to think on your feet, assess problems and find solutions.
MWVA Teaches The 7 Steps of Problem Solving
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Identify the problem or question.
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Gather data, opinions, and arguments.
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Analyze and evaluate the data.
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Identify assumptions.
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Establish significance.
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Make a decision/reach a conclusion.
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Present and/or communicate.
Importance of Critical Thinking
Critical thinking skills are very important because they enable individuals to deal effectively with social, scientific, and practical problems. Simply put, individuals who are able to think critically are able to solve problems effectively. Merely having knowledge or information is not enough.
Goals
The ultimate goal of critically thinking is to solve problems and/or make decisions. This is achieved by mentally processing information in a clear, logical, reasonable, and reflective manner so you can understand things more clearly.
How to Develop Critical Thinking
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Don't Believe Everything You're Told. The first step to critical thinking is to consider more than one point of view.
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Don't Believe Everything You Think.
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Ask Questions.
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Research Deeper.
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Evaluate Yourself and/or your Work.
