Critical thinking and problem solving skills .pptx

Thinking and types of thinking and problem solving skills

1. CRITICAL THINKING AND PROBLEM SOLVING 1

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3. Calculate the weight of each animal Calculate the total weight of the animals 3

4. Course Content Introduction to critical and creative thinking Definition of critical and creative thinking Aspects of critical thinking, Subjective and objective truth Logic and basic statistics Reasoning , Ambiguities Fallacies Persuasion Problem Solving Problem Solving Strategies Problem-solving cycle Critical evaluation and brain mechanism Applying Critical Thinking to Everyday Problems including ICT related problems and Blooms taxanomy Improving Decision Making Skills Benefits of Improving Thinking Capacity and Decision Making Mode of Delivery Lectures, tutorials , problem-solving activities, teamwork 4

5. Reading Materials Richards T. (2015), Problem Solving: Best Strategies to Decision Making, Critical Thinking, and Positive Thinking. www.livres2.com/LIVREE/E1/E001004.pdf Schuster S. (2018). The Art of Thinking in Systems: Improve your logic, think more critically and use proven systems. ISBN: 1951385225, https://www.collectionbooks.net/pdf/the-art-of-thinking-in-systems Caroselli M. (2011). The Critical thinking Toolkit: Spart your Teams Creativity with 35 Problem-solving activities, American Management Association, New York, www.amanet.org Ruggiero, Vincent Ryan (2012). Beyond Feelings: A Guide to Critical Thinking , 9th Edition. New York: McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. Hurson , T. (2008).  Think Better: An Innovator’s Guide to Productive Thinking . New York: McGraw-Hill. Lavery , J., Hughes, W. & Doran, K. (2009).  Critical Thinking: An Introduction to the Basic Skills . Ontario: Broadview Press. McInerney , D.Q. (2005).  Being Logical: A guide to good thinking . Toronto: Random House. 5

6. Introduction to Critical thinking CRITICAL THINKING “Critical” does not mean “ n e gative ”. Critical thinking involves skilled judgement or obs e rvation . A good critical thinker has the cognitive skills and intellectual dispositions needed to effectively identify, analyze and evaluate arguments and truth claims. T hinking is hard and it’s not natural. 6

7. Critical thinking What is Thinking? Thinking is the cognitive process, the use of everything from long-term memory to come to an end or solution to a problem. Webster’s New World Dictionary defines the word think, as the general word which means to exercise mental faculties to form ideas, arrive at conclusions, etc. Thinking is also synonymously used with the words reason, cogitate, and reflect.  7

8. Critical thinking Thinking can be defined in many ways: 1. Thinking Is A Symbolic Process Thinking is defined as the memory representations or symbols for a purpose. While executing mental actions and implementing decisions, individuals take the help of visual representations or mental images of persons or objects. The mental images or visual representations may be in the form of past knowledge, understanding of signs, symbols, concepts, ideas, visual pictures, words, languages, numbers, and diagrams. 8

9. Critical thinking 2. Thinking Is A Higher Mental Process Thinking comes under cognitive psychology. Cognitive psychology is a branch of psychology that deals with higher mental processes which examine thinking, knowing and reasoning, problem-solving, decision making, and understanding the world, communicating our thoughts to others, using our memory and current experience. Thinking makes human beings higher organisms than animals. It is a process that remains until death. People think even in dreams and sleep. 9

10. Critical thinking 3. Thinking Is A Sub-Vocal Talking Thinking is a private process, the inner workings of an individual as well as a mechanical activity of the person. Thinking is neither an activity confined to the head nor directly observable. It involves implicit or inner behaviour, mental images, and some slight muscular movements. We can not think only in verbal and mathematical symbols but also in gestures of the arm, hands, and heads, as well as in a wide variety of expressive movements, such as shrug of the shoulders, arrowed eyebrows, a smile, etc. thus the whole organism is involved in thinking 10

11. Critical thinking 4. Thinking Is Fulfilling A Need or Problem Solving It is always initiated by a problem and ends with its solution. It is evident when we produce new meanings, beliefs, and plans to solve problems or make decisions. Some problems are easy to solve while others require great effort, concentration, patience, and thought. Some may be unsolvable but still, we think. Thinking can be seen in the “aha” (I got the answer) experience when people find the solution to a problem suddenly that had been in their mind for hours or days, later, thus fulfilling the need of an individual. 11

12. What is Critical Thinking? Critical thinking involves skilled judgement or observation. Critical thinking is the ability to effectively analyze information and form a reasoned judgement. Critical thinking is the analysis of available facts, evidence, observations and arguments in order to form a judgement by the application of rational, skeptical and unbiased analyses and evaluations. Critical thinking is the objective and rational analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgement . 12

13. Three important aspects of critical thinking. Quick thinking Creative thinking Analytical thinking 13

14. Three important aspects of critical thinking. Quick Thinking − It is a quality that enables few people to give quick and accurate answers in a flawless manner when they face unexpected questions, while others might be caught mumbling and fumbling over words. This quality needs a lot of practice and depending on the amount of practice you put into thinking fast under time-bound circumstances, your answers will be prompt and satisfactory. Developing quick thinking skills can be beneficial in various areas of life, such as emergency situations, time-sensitive work environments, problem-solving scenarios, or competitive activities. 14

15. C haracteristics of Quick thinking Rapid Information Processing: Quick thinkers have the capacity to quickly absorb and process information, allowing them to grasp essential details and identify critical factors in a short amount of time. Decisiveness: Quick thinkers are able to make prompt decisions based on limited information or under time pressure. They can assess situations, evaluate options, and choose a course of action without getting paralyzed by indecision. Flexibility: Quick thinking involves being adaptable and open to changing circumstances. 15

16. C haracteristics of quick thinking cont’ d. Problem-Solving Skills: Quick thinkers possess strong problem-solving abilities and can come up with creative solutions rapidly. They can identify patterns, connect dots, and find effective ways to overcome obstacles or resolve issues efficiently. e. Mental Agility : Quick thinking requires mental agility and the ability to switch between different tasks or perspectives quickly. It involves cognitive flexibility and the capacity to process and integrate new information rapidly. f. Confidence: Quick thinkers exhibit confidence in their abilities to make swift decisions and trust their judgment. They are comfortable taking calculated risks and are not easily deterred by setbacks or uncertainties. g. Focus and Attention: Quick thinkers can maintain focus and concentrate on the task at hand, even in high-pressure situations. 16

17. Three important aspects of critical thinking cont’ 2. Creative thinking: It refers to the cognitive ability to generate innovative and original ideas, solutions, or perspectives. It involves breaking away from conventional or traditional thinking patterns and exploring new possibilities, connections, and interpretations. Creative thinking encompasses the ability to think imaginatively, outside the box, and beyond existing constraints. 17

18. Some key components of creative thinking Some key components of creative thinking include: Brainstorming: Generating a large number of ideas without judgment or evaluation. Reframing: Looking at a problem or situation from a different perspective. Making connections: Finding relationships and connections between seemingly unrelated concepts or ideas. Experimenting: Trying out new approaches or ideas, even if they seem unconventional or risky. Taking risks: Being willing to take risks and try new things, even if they might not work out. 18

19. Scenario A restaurant owner wants to attract more customers to their establishment. i . Brainstorming : The restaurant owner invites their staff to a brainstorming session to generate ideas for attracting more customers. They write down every idea that comes to mind, no matter how unconventional or unrealistic it may seem. Some of the ideas include hosting live music events, offering a loyalty program, and organizing a food festival. ii. Reframing : The restaurant owner reframes the problem from the perspective of the customer. They consider what factors might influence a customer's decision to dine at their restaurant, such as location, ambiance, and menu selection. iii. Making connections: The restaurant owner identifies potential connections between the restaurant and the local community. They consider partnering with local farmers to source fresh ingredients, offering discounts to nearby businesses, and participating in community events. 19

20. Scenario cont… iv. Experimenting: The restaurant owner decides to experiment with a new menu item that incorporates locally-sourced ingredients. They also try hosting a live music event on a weekend evening to attract more customers. v. Taking risks: The restaurant owner is willing to take a risk and try out unconventional ideas, such as hosting a food festival in their parking lot or partnering with a nearby gym to offer a healthy meal plan for fitness enthusiasts. 20

21. Three important aspects of critical thinking cont’ 3 . Analytical Thinking − Before we get into understanding what is analytical thinking, lets understand the word, analysis, which forms the word, analytical. The word “analysis” comes from the Ancient Greek ἀνάλυσις ( analysis, “a breaking-up” or “an untying;” from ana- “up, throughout” and lysis “a loosening“).  Analytical thinking is the term used to describe the thinking process of abstract separation of a whole entity into its constituent parts in order to study the parts and their relations. Analytical thinking involves defining the problem and generating a list of possible solutions for the problem. 21

22. Analytical thinking What are analytical skills? Analytical skills refer to the ability to research, collect and analyze information to form more complex ideas about it. Using analytical skills is a great way to  develop solutions for complex problems  and interpret data to gain more knowledge about the subject. 22

23. Ways To Improve Your Analytical Skills 1 . Read more: Try joining a book club or picking up more books. Reading on a more frequent basis will help keep your mind running, force your brain to think in new ways and encourage you to view ideas differently as it pertains to the various characters in your novel or reading material. 2. Build your mathematical skills: Mathematics involves solving an equation step-by-step to reach an answer. Because all forms of mathematics are highly logical, sharpening your mathematical skills is a great way to refine your analytical skills. 3. Play brain games: Brain games challenge you to think deeply and logically. They are preferred method used to sharpen analytical skills. Playing Sudoku, solving crossword puzzles or playing board games are great examples. 23

24. Ways To Improve Your Analytical Skills 4. Be more observant : Paying attention to detail and being observant is a great way to improve your analytical skills because it allows you to process the way things work and interact. 5. Working in a group setting: Working in a group setting allows you to come together with others to discuss ideas, problems and various situations. Understanding how others process information and interpret the world will help guide your own worldview and develop your own analytical skills. 6. Learn something new: Expanding your knowledge can improve your analytical skills. The more you learn, the more ways and information you’ll have when it comes to solving problems and analyzing situations.  24

25. Ways To Improve Your Analytical Skills 7. Take an exercise class: Exercising more frequently can help improve your cognitive abilities. Regarding exercise classes, memorizing the next steps in a workout routine is a great way to help develop your analytical skills. 8. Keep a journal: Recording your day’s events gives you time to reflect. When things don’t turn out as planned, you can learn from these mistakes and take them into account for your future actions. A large part of analysing involves trial and error. 25

26. Ways To Improve Your Analytical Skills 9. Ask questions: When someone asks questions, they’re often asking for clarification and understanding. Expressing curiosity provides you with different viewpoints and allows you to compare your own opinion with someone else’s. 10. Download apps: While not all apps can help improve your analytical skills, many brain game and organizational apps can. Recording what you’re eating each day through food diary applications, for example, allows you to track and analyse your caloric and nutritional intake each day. These apps allow you to interpret the data and take the necessary steps to adjust and improve the next day. 26

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28. What is critical thinking? 28

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30. STEPS IN CRITICAL THINKING Some of the key components of critical thinking include: Identifying the problem or issue Gathering and evaluating relevant information Analyzing the information and identifying patterns and relationships Identifying and evaluating alternative perspectives and arguments Drawing conclusions and making well-reasoned judgments based on the available evidence. 30

31. Importance of Critical Thinking Better decision-making : Critical thinking enables individuals to identify the most effective and appropriate solutions to problems and to evaluate the potential consequences of different decisions. Improved problem-solving: Critical thinking helps individuals to break down complex problems into smaller components and to identify the underlying causes and relationships. 3 . More effective communication: Critical thinking helps individuals to articulate their ideas and opinions clearly and effectively. It enables individuals to evaluate arguments and evidence, and to present their own arguments in a logical and persuasive manner. 31

32. Importance of Critical Thinking cont’ 4 . Enhanced creativity: Critical thinking helps individuals to think outside the box and to consider unconventional solutions to problems. 5. Increased efficiency: Critical thinking enables individuals to identify and evaluate the most important and relevant information, and to avoid distractions and irrelevant information. 6. Better judgment: Critical thinking helps individuals to evaluate the credibility and relevance of information and arguments. It enables individuals to distinguish between fact and opinion, and to identify biased or misleading information. 32

33. APPLICATIONS OF CRITICAL THINKING Education : Critical thinking is an important component of education, particularly in higher education. It is used to evaluate information and arguments, to assess the validity of sources, and to develop informed opinions and arguments. Business: Critical thinking is essential in business, particularly in decision-making and problem-solving. It is used to evaluate the potential risks and benefits of different courses of action, to identify and evaluate opportunities, and to make effective decisions. Healthcare : Critical thinking is crucial in healthcare, particularly in diagnosis and treatment. It is used to evaluate symptoms and test results, to identify potential causes of illness, and to develop effective treatment plans. 33

34. APPLICATIONS OF CRITICAL THINKING 4.Law : Critical thinking is a fundamental skill in the legal profession, particularly in legal reasoning and analysis. It is used to evaluate evidence, to identify and evaluate legal precedents, and to develop effective legal arguments. 5.Science: Critical thinking is essential in scientific research and inquiry. It is used to evaluate and interpret data, to develop hypotheses, and to design experiments. 6.Media: Critical thinking is important in the media, particularly in evaluating and analyzing news and information. 7.Personal life: Critical thinking is useful in everyday life, particularly in decision-making and problem-solving. It is used to evaluate options, to assess the potential risks and benefits of different courses of action, and to make informed decisions. 8.Customer Service 34

35. CHARACTERISTICS OF CRITICAL THINKERS Researchers state that critical thinkers all over the world have four common characteristics:   They are active listeners.   They are curious people.   They have self-discipline.   They are humble and rooted. 35

36. CHARACTERISTICS OF CRITICAL THINKERS Active Listener Being an active listener means you have to be completely attentive and engaged to what the speaker is saying. Not only that, an active listener can also understand the subconscious messages that the speaker is sending, just by interpreting the words of the speaker when the speaker might not have explicitly mentioned it otherwise. 36

37. CHARACTERISTICS OF CRITICAL THINKERS A curious brain is a learning brain. It has been seen that people who have good decision- making skills are always trying to learn new things. That inquisitiveness keeps them ready and updated, so that they are in a position to handle any crisis in the best possible manner. People like these love asking questions and reject explanations that are not based on logic and rationality. 37

38. CHARACTERISTICS OF CRITICAL THINKERS Self-discipline is where you prevent others from influencing your thoughts, so that you can have an independent reasoning and rationalizing ability. Humility is the quality of downplaying one’s contribution in a successful task while giving credit to others. Humility is also the quality of being open to new ideas. Critical thinkers are always humble while learning so that they can learn new things without their ego fighting against someone teaching them something. 38

39. Critical thinking Brain teaser 39

40. Applying Critical Thinking To Everyday Problems It is important for you to apply critical thinking on a daily basis, in order to successfully turn it into a habit. 1. Make the best use of time Make the best use of the time that you have on your hands. 2. Tackle one thing at a time When you analyse your daily activities and identify your strengths and weaknesses, you must try and tackle one problem at a time. 3. Record your progress Maintain a book and record your progress. One of the best ways to keep yourself motivated is to maintain a book. Record your progress by analysing a situation and how you tackle a problem. 40

41. Applying Critical Thinking To Everyday Problems Modify your habits You must modify your daily habits in order to incorporate critical thinking. Consciously make time for the habit and try to spend some time on a daily basis trying to improve your thinking capacity. Understand your forte and try to indulge in diverse activities. Tackle your autopilot mode You must learn to tackle your auto pilot mode and try to stop taking unconscious decisions. Before you arrive at a solution and implement it, spend some time to evaluate whether you are subconsciously taking the decision. 41

42. Applying Critical Thinking To Everyday Problems Change your perspective You must change your perspective every now and then. When faced with a problem that involves another person, try and think of it from their point of view as well. That will allow you to arrive at a decision at a faster pace. Have a partner When you take up something new, it is advisable that you have a partner to assist you. Not only will you remain motivated but also have the opportunity to enact the various problems and help find feasible solutions. 42

43. Applying Critical Thinking To Everyday Problems Be reasonable In all of your critical thinking practice, you have to be reasonable and practical to the farthest extent. Although it is advised for you to make a list of all abstract solutions as well, just to build a counter argument to your feasible solutions, it is recommended that you be as reasonable as possible. 43

44. DECISION MAKING Decision making refers to the process of selecting a course of action or choosing between alternatives based on careful consideration of available information, options, preferences, and potential outcomes. It is a cognitive process that involves assessing the pros and cons of different choices, evaluating potential risks and benefits, and making a judgment or reaching a conclusion. 44

45. E lements of decision making include: Identifying the problem or goal: Recognizing the need for a decision by identifying a problem to be solved or a desired outcome to be achieved. Gathering information: Collecting relevant data, facts, and information that are necessary for making an informed decision. This may involve research, analysis, and consulting various sources. Generating options: Generating a range of possible choices or alternatives that could potentially address the problem or achieve the desired goal. This often involves brainstorming, considering different perspectives, and exploring creative solutions. Evaluating options: Assessing the strengths, weaknesses, risks, and potential outcomes of each option. It involves considering factors such as feasibility, cost, time constraints, and impact on stakeholders. 45

46. E lements of decision making include: 5. Making a decision: Selecting the most suitable option based on the evaluation process. This typically involves weighing the available information, considering personal values and priorities, and using critical thinking skills to arrive at a reasoned judgment. 6. Implementing the decision: Putting the chosen option into action by developing an action plan, allocating resources, and executing the necessary steps to implement the decision effectively. 7. Evaluating outcomes: Assessing the results and consequences of the decision. It involves comparing the actual outcomes with the desired goals, identifying lessons learned, and making adjustments if necessary. 46

47. Improving Decision Making Skills Distraction When faced with a problem or a decision-making opportunity, you must simultaneously look for a distraction. The distraction will help you concentrate better on the problem. The distraction should be within limits and allow you to unwind. It can be a hobby like painting or something that will have a therapeutic effect on you. Learn new languages One of the best things that you can do to improve your decision making skill is to learn a new language. As vague and abstract as that may sound, it has scientific backing. When you learn a new language, your brain starts to grow bigger and, in turn, allows you to think better. And when you think better, you automatically start to make better decisions. 47

48. Improving Decision Making Skills Exercise You must exercise on a daily basis, in order to cut down on the level of cortisol in your brain. Cortisol is the chemical that can cause you to undertake stress, which can, in turn, affect your decision-making capacity. You have to try and work out for at least 30 minutes a day and try to keep it as varied as possible, to avoid monotony. Diet You must consume a balanced diet, in order to develop a good critical thinking and decision making capacity. Make sure you eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. You must also incorporate at least 8 glasses of water a day or balance it out by consuming juices. Try and avoid buying processed foods, as they will contain unsaturated fats, which can cause your body more harm than good. 48

49. Improving Decision Making Skills Meditate Meditation is a great way for you to relax your mind. If you wish to be a critical thinker and also be able to take timely and important decisions, then you must meditate or take up a relaxing stance. Meditating can help improve your memory power and also keep stress and tensions at bay. Social life In order to have increased mental development, you have to have an extensive social life. You have to have a big friend circle and also try and have friends of all ages. When you interact with such a wide group of people, you develop the tendency of thinking at all levels. You can indulge in small talk with strangers, in order to expand your social circle. 49

50. Improving Decision Making Skills Read You have to read on a daily basis, in order to understand the various ways in which you can increase your potential. You must read the newspaper daily and be up to date with all the latest news. You must also read books of all genres. You can join a book club in order to keep you motivated and meet other readers and openly propagate your thoughts and opinions. Explore You have to travel around, in order to expand your mental horizons. How can you live under a rock and be intelligent? You have to get out there and explore the world. You must make the effort of going to the various places the world has to offer and try understanding each and every culture you come across. You can also take your family along; as it will help you establish a better bond. 50

51. Benefits of Improving Thinking Capacity And Decision Making Professional benefits Idea building Critical thinking can help in building new ideas. Say, for example, a new problem arises at your workplace. By employing group critical thinking you can come up with a lot of solutions, which will help in the formulation of arguments. Once the arguments are analysed, you can zero in on the best solutions. Slowly, you will create an effective databank and be able to solve problems at a faster pace on a daily basis, thereby increasing your productivity. Team work Critical thinking can help build teamwork. When a problem arises, everybody will have to discuss and determine the various ways in which that problem can be tackled. When such group meetings occur, people are bound to grow closer. Teamwork building will help everybody that is involved and help you to find answers that suit the team. 51

52. Benefits of Improving Thinking Capacity And Decision Making Progress No company will stagnate when the workers employ critical thinking. There will be no room for monotony as creativity will be encouraged every time that there is a problem. The company is sure to progress and so will the company employees. Client building By providing meaningful and feasible solutions to your clients, you will increase your customer base. And by doing so, you will increase your profits and allow your business to grow. Your customers and clients will be appreciative of your lateral and “out of the box” thinking methods in providing them with quick solutions and, through word of mouth, your business will grow. 52

53. Benefits of Improving Thinking Capacity And Decision Making Social benefits Better compatibility Critical thinking can promote open mindedness. With such an attitude, it will be easy for people to get on together. Society will come together as an entire unit and try and find feasible solutions to the various problems that arise. Compatibility is one of the main factors that determines whether a society can survive and progress together and through the implementation of critical thinking and subsequent problem solving, it will be extremely easy to establish compatibility. There will be less fights and more progress. Bigger reach When you apply critical thinking in solving problems, people will take an instant liking towards you. You will be much appreciated and your friend circle will grow. You will start to make friends with people at all levels, which can, in turn, improve your professional life as well. You can also attain a very influential position and can command a lot of respect. You will drive away any negativity and allow only positive people and circumstances to surround you. 53

54. Benefits of Improving Thinking Capacity And Decision Making Personal benefits Less misunderstandings When you have critical thinking as an option, you can help avoid fights and distance misunderstandings. With fewer problems on the home and personal front, you will be able to concentrate better in school. It will help you in increasing your productivity and making the most of your intelligence. Better genes If you include the habit of critical thinking into your life on a daily basis, then you can imbibe it in your genes. And once it is completely imbibed and a part and parcel of your DNA, then you will pass it on to the next generation. You will help your children and grandchildren develop the same habits as you and thereby create a bright future for them. 54

55. GOING BEYOND COMFORT ZONES (ADAPTABILITY) In this changing world, organizations have come to realize that changes are a standard course of action in business and they have to adjust accordingly and fast, so that they don’t miss the train. The first step of learning adaptability is stepping out of your comfort zone . (Expand comfort zone?) This involves viewing things from a different perspective and under different circumstances. Getting out of your comfort zone takes a lot of listening to different people’s opinions, and analyzing facts based on these inputs. 55

56. GOING BEYOND COMFORT ZONES( ADAPTABILITY) What is adaptability? the ability to adjust to different conditions or circumstances . Qualities of an adaptable person: Flexible and available to adjust at any moment. See opportunity above obstacles Adaptable people are true team players. Adaptable people can be versatile visionaries, who are prepared and proactive.  Adaptable people are emotionally intelligent. Practice positivity, professionally and personally! What is Resilience? Is the ability to overcome challenges with a positive impact, but it’s also a mindset that should be developed early in life. 56

57. Steps to learn adaptability Recognize the need for adaptability : The first step in learning adaptability is to recognize that change is constant in life, and the ability to adapt is necessary to thrive and succeed in different situations. Acknowledging the need for adaptability is the foundation for learning how to be adaptable. Develop a growth mindset: Having a growth mindset means embracing challenges, seeing failures as opportunities for growth, and being open to learning new things. This mindset enables individuals to approach new situations with curiosity and a willingness to learn and adapt. Build resilience: Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and cope with stress. Building resilience involves developing coping mechanisms, practicing self-care, and staying optimistic in the face of adversity. 57

58. Steps to learn adaptability 4 . Practice mindfulness : Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment, without judgment. It can help individuals to stay calm and centred in the face of change and uncertainty. Mindfulness can be practiced through meditation, deep breathing, or simply being present in the moment. 5. Be open to feedback: Being open to feedback is important for learning adaptability. Feedback can provide valuable insights into areas that need improvement and help individuals to adjust their behaviour and approach in new situations. 6. Embrace new experiences: Embracing new experiences and stepping out of your comfort zone can help develop adaptability. This can include trying new activities, meeting new people, or taking on new challenges. 58

59. Aspects of Critical Thinking C ritical thinking is an ongoing process that requires practice and the willingness to question and examine information and ideas critically. It enables you to make : W ell-informed decisions S olve problems effectively, N avigate complex situations with confidence. 59

60. Aspects of Critical Thinking Analysis: Breaking down complex ideas or information into smaller components. Identifying patterns, relationships, and connections. Assessing the reliability and credibility of sources. Evaluation: Assessing the strengths and weaknesses of arguments, claims, or evidence. Considering alternative viewpoints or perspectives. Making informed judgments based on evidence and reasoning. 60

61. Aspects of Critical Thinking 3. Inference: Drawing logical and reasonable conclusions based on available information. Recognizing implicit or hidden assumptions. Avoiding hasty generalizations or jumping to unwarranted conclusions. 61

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63. Aspects of Critical Thinking ( Inference) "Sarah walked into the kitchen and saw an open cookbook on the counter, with ingredients scattered around. The oven was preheated, and a delicious aroma filled the air. She noticed a mixing bowl with a whisk covered in batter. There were also measuring cups and spoons on the counter. The kitchen timer was set for 30 minutes. Sarah's younger brother, Alex, was sitting at the table, eagerly waiting. He had a big smile on his face." 63

64. Possible inferences: Sarah is likely in the process of baking or cooking something. Sarah is following a recipe from the open cookbook. The ingredients scattered around suggest that Sarah has been actively working in the kitchen. The preheated oven and delicious aroma indicate that something is being baked. The mixing bowl with batter and the presence of measuring cups and spoons suggest that Sarah is preparing a batter or dough for a recipe. The set kitchen timer for 30 minutes indicates that whatever Sarah is baking requires a specific cooking time. Alex's presence at the table with a big smile suggests that he is excited and looking forward to enjoying the outcome of Sarah's baking. 64

65. Aspects of Critical Thinking 4. Deductive and Inductive Reasoning Deductive Reasoning : Deductive reasoning is a logical process that moves from general premises or principles to specific conclusions . Here's an example: Premise 1: All mammals have lungs. Premise 2: Dolphins are mammals. Conclusion: Therefore, dolphins have lungs. Deductive reasoning allows us to draw a specific conclusion that is necessarily true if the premises are true. The conclusion follows logically from the premises, and there is no room for it to be false if the premises are accurate. 65

66. Aspects of Critical Thinking Inductive Reasoning : Inductive reasoning is a logical process that moves from specific observations or examples to general conclusions . Here's an example: Observation 1: Every time you press the "on" button on your computer, it starts up. Observation 2: Every time your friend presses the "on" button on their computer, it starts up. Conclusion: Therefore, pressing the "on" button on a computer will cause it to start up. However, it's important to note that inductive reasoning does not provide absolute certainty, as there could be instances where pressing the "on" button does not result in a computer starting up (e.g., if the computer is not functioning properly). 66

67. Inductive and Deductive reasoning 67

68. Aspects of Critical Thinking 5. Problem Solving: Identifying problems or challenges. Developing and implementing effective strategies or solutions. Evaluating the outcomes and making adjustments as needed. 6. Open-Mindedness: Being receptive to different perspectives, ideas, and information. Willingness to challenge one's own beliefs or preconceived notions. Considering alternative viewpoints with intellectual honesty. 68

69. Aspects of Critical Thinking 7. Clarity: Expressing thoughts and ideas clearly and coherently. Using precise and appropriate language. Avoiding ambiguity or vagueness. 8. Creativity: Thinking outside the box and generating innovative ideas or solutions. Making connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. Embracing flexibility and adaptability in problem-solving. 69

70. Aspects of Critical Thinking 9. Reflection: Engaging in self-assessment and self-reflection. Identifying personal biases and assumptions. Continuously seeking opportunities for improvement and learning. 10. Communication: Articulating ideas effectively. Listening actively and attentively. Engaging in constructive dialogue and respectful debate. 70

71. Subjective and objective truth Subjective truth refers to the understanding or interpretation of reality that is based on an individual's personal experiences, beliefs, opinions, perception, and emotions. It is subjective in nature because it can vary from person to person, influenced by factors such as cultural background, upbringing, personal values, and biases. 71

72. A spects of subjective truth Personal Perspective: Subjective truth is shaped by an individual's unique perspective and the lens through which they view the world. It is influenced by their thoughts, emotions, and personal history. For example, two people witnessing the same event may have different subjective truths based on their individual interpretations and perceptions. Emotional Influence: Subjective truth can be influenced by emotions and feelings. People's emotional state, personal biases, and attachments can impact their perception of reality. Emotions can colour the way individuals interpret events or information, leading to subjective truths that differ from objective facts. 72

73. A spects of subjective truth 3. Cultural and Social Influence: Cultural and social factors play a significant role in shaping subjective truth. Beliefs, norms, values, and societal conditioning can influence an individual's subjective understanding of reality. Different cultures or social groups may have distinct subjective truths regarding various aspects of life, morality, or social issues. 4. Limited Perspective: Subjective truth is often limited to an individual's own experiences and knowledge. It may not encompass a comprehensive or objective understanding of a particular subject. Each person's subjective truth is based on their subjective reality, which may not reflect the complete truth or the experiences of others. 73

74. A spects of subjective truth 5. Subjectivity and Interpretation: Subjective truth allows for interpretation and personal meaning-making. It recognizes that individuals interpret information and experiences in their own unique ways. This can lead to diverse subjective truths that vary based on personal understanding and perspective. 6. Subjective Decision Making: Subjective truth often influences personal decision making. People make choices based on their subjective beliefs, values, and desires. These decisions may not align with objective facts or universal truths but are driven by personal subjective truths. 74

75. O bjective truth Objective truth refers to the understanding or interpretation of reality that is independent of personal opinions, beliefs, or biases. It is based on facts, evidence, logic, and can be verified or validated through objective methods. 75

76. A spects of objective truth Factual Basis: Objective truth is rooted in facts and verifiable information. It is based on empirical evidence, scientific observations, logical reasoning, or measurable data. Objective truths are not influenced by personal perspectives, emotions, or biases. Consistency and Universality: Objective truths are consistent across different contexts, cultures, or individuals. They are not subjective to personal interpretations or beliefs. For example, the laws of physics, mathematical principles, or scientific theories are considered objective truths as they hold true regardless of personal perspectives. 76

77. A spects of objective truth 3. Independent Verification: Objective truths can be independently verified or validated by multiple observers or through systematic methods. Scientific experiments, measurements, peer review, and consensus-building are often used to establish objective truths. 4. Impartiality: Objective truth aims to be impartial and unbiased. It strives to minimize or eliminate subjective influences and personal opinions. Objective truths are based on evidence and logical reasoning rather than personal preferences or emotional attachments. 77

78. A spects of objective truth 5. External Reality: Objective truth seeks to align with the external reality or the way things objectively exist. It aims to describe or explain the world as it objectively is, independent of individual perceptions or interpretations. 6. Objective Interpretations: While objective truth itself is independent of personal opinions, interpretations of objective truths can still vary . Different individuals may have different interpretations or understandings of the same objective truth, but the underlying objective reality remains unchanged. 78

79. THANK YOU 79