CF03 - Critical Thinking

CF03 - Critical Thinking

1. MP 1. The Critical Thinker

   • Critical thinking is the process of actively conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating information gathered from observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication as a guide to belief and action.
   • Characteristics that Embody a Proficient Critical Thinker
     • Open Minded
     • Healthy Skepticism
     • Intellectual Humility
       • Basically, examining new evidence even if it counters your own beliefs.
     • Free Thinker
     • Highly Motivated
   • Approaches for Evaluating Information
     • Credible
       • Is it believable? Trustworthy?
     • Unbiased
       • Is it fair and impartial?
     • Accurate
       • Is it free from errors? Correct and truthful?
   • Systems Thinking and Decision Making
     • Reactive Thinking (System-1)
       • "Auto-pilot"; shoot first, ask questions later
     • Reflective Thinking (System-2)
       • Deliberate, thinking about thinking

2. MP 2. Hindrances to Critical Thinking

   • A. Basic Human Limitations
     • Confirmation Bias & Selective Thinking
       • Valuing shared beliefs and devaluing contradictory beliefs
     • False Memories & Confabulation
       • Filling-in memory gaps and personal biases
     • Physical & Emotional Hindrances
       • Stress, fatigue, drugs, etc.
     • Testimonial Evidence
       • Inherently subjective; additional evidence needed
   • B. Use of Language
     • Ambiguity
     • Assuring Expressions
   • C. Faulty Logic or Perception
   • D. Psychological or Sociological Pitfalls

3. MP 3. Questions Critical Thinkers Ask

4. MP 4. Facione's Scoring Rubric