Learning Skills
Thinking critically
Critical thinking is a process, not an outcome. It involves a continual questioning of assumptions (facts taken for granted without proof) - both your own assumptions and those you might read or hear.
You do this by:
- Identifying the underlying assumption
- Examining its accuracy and validity
- Asking probing questions
- Casting aside old assumptions
- Being aware of the context of time and culture, and
- Imagining and exploring alternatives.
In other words, critical thinking is thinking about your learning and demonstrating that thinking to your reader/lecturer/marker. Evidence of critical thinking will be reflected in higher marks for your assignments.
Activity 2
Give yourself a score out of eight from the list of traits below. Ask yourself, do I think critically, or should you say, can I think critically? (Circle the number beside the traits you recognise in your thinking.)
You are likely to think critically if you are:
1. intellectually curious, want to know the truth
2. objective, look at evidence rather than responding emotionally
3. open-minded, willing to look at all sides of an issue
4. flexible, willing to change your position if evidence warrants it
5. intellectually sceptical, accept arguments only if they are logical
6. intellectually honest, accept evidence even if it contradicts your beliefs
7. systematic, pursue each argument to its logical conclusion, and
8. respect others' viewpoints, willing to admit you are wrong
Ref: O'Shea, R. (1997). Writing for psychology (2nd ed.). Sydney: Harcourt Brace.
Activity 3
What are some critical questions you might ask yourself about the assignment question you analysed above?
Discuss the suggestion that students must possess a wide range of skills to succeed at tertiary study.
