The term "critical thinking" is one that we use often, but don't always take the time to fully understand what exactly it means to critically think. According to the definition of critical thinking provided by Google, to critically think is "the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment." However, this analysis and evaluation that takes place when we use our critical thinking skills contradict other forms of learning that we have had engraved into us by the school system. For instance, critical thinking does not require memorization or algebraic formulas; it is a much more abstract process, that does not simply focus on the "what" but also the "why."

   

     Experts suggest that there are core skills required for critical thinking such as, "interpretation, analysis, evaluation, inference, explanation, and self-regulation." An example of interpretation being when you need to determine a writer's purpose. An example of analysis would be when a doctor or nurse needs to analyze their patient in order to determine the correct treatment needed. An example of evaluation would be evaluating a source in order to determine whether or not it is credible when using it to construct an essay. According to the same experts, Inference is defined as “to identify and secure elements needed to draw reasonable conclusions; to form conjectures and hypotheses; to consider relevant information and to reduce the consequences-" An example of this would be when you are faced with a problem, you must develop a set of options for how you could potentially address it. Explanation, however, in terms of critical thinking differs slightly than just simply providing an explanation for something. For instance, you are analyzing the entirety of what you are explaining in order to justify your explanation. Lastly, the most important cognitive skill involved in critical thinking is self-regulation. Self-regulation meaning evaluating your interpretation or conclusion and making adjustments where they are needed, evidently reforming your explanation.

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      So, why critical thinking? Personally, I don't even think this question needs much of an explanation; I think that the skills associated with critical thinking are ones that every kind of individual no matter what career path they may be pursuing can benefit from. Not only does critical thinking promote self-expression and self-reflection, but learning to approach both specific concerns and everyday life with critical thinking can promote an overall more successful life.

 

Reference:

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https://spcc.libguides.com/ld.php?content_id=51710187 

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