MST525: Defining Critical Thinking

Lecture 3
Defining Critical Thinking

"Critical thinking is consciously

observing, analyzing, reasoning,
and evaluating according to
proven standards"
-Mayfield 1997
Defining Critical Thinking

"Critical thinking is correctly

defined as the review,
evaluation, and revision of
previous thinking"
- Stratton 1999
Defining Critical Thinking

"Critical thinking is
reasonable, reflective thinking
that is focused on deciding
what to believe or do"
- Ennis
 Understanding Critical Thinking
It is the ability to:
1. Analyze the facts,
2. Generate and organize ideas,
3. Make comparisons,
4. Evaluate arguments,
5. Draw inferences,
6. Defend opinions and
7. Solve problems.
Four Aspects of Critical Thinking
1. Abstract Thinking:
thinking past what your senses tell you
Examples:
1. Sweets are very tasty.
2. Arijit Singh has got a lovely voice.
3. Fire burns.
 Four Aspects of Critical Thinking
2. Creative Thinking:
thinking “out of the box,” innovating
Eg:
Join the dots:
 Join the Dots in one go with
not more than 4 straight lines
 Lets Match The Sticks

Make this equation read correctly

without touching the sticks
8
 Apply Creativity

Change your perspective

9
Four Aspects of Critical Thinking
3. Systematic Thinking:
organizing your thoughts into
logical steps
Eg:
1: Preparation of tea
2: Stitching a trouser
Use 2 rectangles to put all the cows in separate place
Four Aspects of Critical Thinking
4. Communicative Thinking:
being precise in giving your
ideas to others. Eg:
1: Answering a question with
word limit
2: Saying thoughts in a limited
time
Thank you

Prof. Narinder Verma

School of Business Management and Liberal Arts
Shoolini University
Village Bajhol, Solan (H.P)

+91 9816080528
narinderverma@shooliniuniversity.com