Critical and Creative Thinking

Lecturer- Mr.
George Nyongesa
The Technical University of Kenya
Science and Technology Department
UCCC 1102 - Critical and Creative Thinking
(Engineering Cohort)
Telephone: 0720451235
UCCC 1102 - CRITICAL AND CREATIVE THINKING
1. Introduction
The history of Critical and Creative Thinking can be traced to the historical origins of oldest subject of
study called Philosophy. The word Philosophy is derived from two Greek words: “Philo” which in English
translates to “Love”, and another word “Sophia” which translates to “wisdom”. From this origin, we can
define Philosophy simply as “love of wisdom” (although as study, Philosophy has more comprehensive
definition(s)).
The ancient human beings (600BCE) began the tradition of studying (nature, human beings, etc) as you
know it today by asking questions. They asked questions and searched for answers, in some cases they
found answers and in others they did not. All the same asking questions helped them to understand
nature so that they can solve some of their problems even as they improved their life condition.
Some of the questions they asked back then include: What is truth? What can we know? Can we ever
have absolutely certain knowledge? What constitutes a good reason for believing something? Must we
always have evidence in order to know? How can we know truth? What do words we use mean? Are
there rules to thinking? How does reasons/evidence affect conclusion? Can a statement be true and
false at the same time in the same sense? Are there things about the world that are in principle
impossible to know?
Those questions in turn gave birth to other questions like: What makes human actions right or wrong? Is
it ever right to kill a human being? Is it ever right to lie, steal or break a promise? Are human good or evil
by nature?
The process of thinking and asking questions gave further questions such as: What real exists and what
does not exist? Is there a God or gods? Are there spirits? Is mind and body the same thing? Do numbers
exist? Does color exist? Are human beings ever free? What is love? Is beauty in the eye of beholder?
What happiness? Do plants and animals have rights? Why do we have laws? Why do we form
governments? What are things made up of?
From asking these questions these ancient people were able to learn and understand nature,
environment and even human beings. This in turn led to human beings engaging in major projects such
as constructing houses, growing crops, domesticating animals, forming communities and technologies
such as medicine, communication, transport, etc. Also, it is important to point out that all subjects that
we study in our education system, be it medicine, physics, mathematics, chemistry, sociology,
economics, etc, all evolved from attempts to answer some of these old questions. Hence, it is this
Lecturer- Mr. George Nyongesa
tradition of asking of unusual questions that can one day lead to new knowledge or discoveries,
innovations and creativity that this course wants to nurture.
Before we proceed, let us underscore that it is the tradition of taking time to critically think or reason
that established the importance of asking deep questions; the importance of asking questions that
probe profoundly into our thinking or reasoning before we accept ideas as worthy of belief. For one to
be a critical thinker, one must establish a habit or tradition of seeking evidence, closely examining
reasoning and assumptions, analyzing basic words and concepts; and tracing out implications not only of
what is said but of what is done as well. In short, you are on the journey to hone your critical analysis
skills.
From the philosophy questions that these ancient Greek intellectuals asked, we can creatively
categorize them into a) epistemological questions, b) metaphysical questions, c) Ethical questions, and
Logical questions. The four groupings of questions later formed subjects of study, namely,
Epistemology, Metaphysics, Ethics and Logic. These are also called the branches of Philosophy.
Epistemology is the study of how human beings gain knowledge, for instance, what sources of
knowledge are, what nature of knowledge is, and what makes correct knowledge, etc.
Metaphysics is the study of what cannot be studied through studying physical things, for example study
of god(s), justice, love, democracy, etc. It is the study of non-physical things.
Ethics is the study of what is right or wrong in human conduct as human beings relate to each other in
small and large groups. This study helps to decide on what is good/bad; acceptable/not acceptable;
permissible/not permissible; punishable/rewarded; etc.
Logic is the study of arguments to establish whether the argument follows correct thinking/reasoning.
That definition implies that human beings can make arguments based on thinking or reasoning
incorrectly. Generally all human beings communicate to each other through making arguments. In this
case understand that argument is not quarreling. An argument is a set of statements (evidence or
reasons) where some statements lead to a conclusion. In this study we are interested to know how
human beings can think or reason and make arguments that are correct so as to avoid mistakes of
incorrect or bad reasoning. Logic as discipline underlies many other disciplines such as mathematics,
physics, chemistry and critical and creative thinking.
Some of the ancient Greek scholars that inherited humanity the discipline of Philosophy include:
Democritus (460- 370 BC), Empedokles (483- 330 BC), Thales of Miletus (625- 546 BC), Pythagoras (570-
495 BC), Anaxagoras (510- 428 BC), Socrates (469- 399 BC), Plato (428-348 BC), and Aristotle (385-323
BC). As you can see from the dates when these human beings lived, it is long time ago, but as much as
they had limited access to learning facilities, they started the practice of looking for reasons and
evidences to form an argument that leads to knowledge or to solving problems. In that sense, they
started habit or tradition of critical and creative thinking.
2. CRITICAL AND CREATIVE THINKING
Critical thinking is giving reasons or evidence to support your conclusion. It is a means for separating
truth from falsehood and reasonable from unreasonable beliefs. It frequently involves finding flaws in
the arguments of others, but that's not all that it's about. It is mostly about a demand that you have to
really think through what you are saying as reasons or evidence of what you mean in your
communication. We can do critical thinking by asking questions, looking at parts, analyzing, evaluating,
etc.
Note: What Is Critical Thinking?
Critical thinking is the ability to think in an organized and rational manner in order to understand
connections between ideas and/or facts. It helps you decide what to believe in. In other words, it’s
“thinking about thinking”—identifying, analyzing, and then fixing flaws in the way we think.
Steps of Critical Thinking
1. Identify the problem or question.
Be as precise as possible: the narrower the issue, the easier it is to find solutions or answers.
2. Gather data, opinions, and arguments.
Try to find several sources that present different ideas and points of view.
3. Analyze and evaluate the data.
Are the sources reliable? Are their conclusions data-backed or just argumentative? Is there enough
information or data to support given hypotheses?
4. Identify assumptions.
Are you sure the sources you found are unbiased? Are you sure you weren’t biased in your search for
answers?
5. Establish significance.
What piece of information is most important? Is the sample size sufficient? Are all opinions and
arguments even relevant to the problem you’re trying to solve?
6. Make a decision/reach a conclusion.

Identify various conclusions that are possible and decide which (if any) of them are sufficiently
supported. Weigh strengths and limitations of all possible options.
7. Present or communicate.
Once you’ve reached a conclusion, present it to all stakeholders.
The importance of critical thinking
Here are some of the ways critical thinking is important at the university and workplace:
1. Some professions require it
For career success in engineering, law, education, research, medical, economics and many other career
fields, it's important to display critical thinking skills. It's an essential facet of any profession where the
goal is to deduce information objectively without bias, analyze the context, solve creative problems and
come up with realistic solutions.
2. Decision-making improves
Applying critical thinking helps you make decisions that require a lot of thought. Big, life-changing
decisions, like which project to invest in, whether or not to make a career move, are aided by critical
thinking, which encourages you to research and favor objective logic over your initial emotional
response.
3. Critical thinkers are happier
Critical thinking helps people better understand themselves, their motivations and goals. When you can
deduce information to find the most important parts and apply those to your life, you can change your
situation and promote personal growth and overall happiness.
4. Being well-informed is a bonus
In an age when people have more access to information than ever before, critical thinkers excel at
research and finding the most important pieces of information that make them well-informed on any
given topic. This is helpful in workplace discussions and when positioning yourself as a thought-leader in
your industry.
5. It encourages self-reflection
Critical thinkers have the inherent ability to see challenges from several perspectives. By deflecting the
reaction to defend their personal beliefs, critical thinkers are more self-reflective and can change their
minds and opinions in light of new information.
How to improve critical thinking skills
1. Evaluate new information
The first step to thinking critically is to accept information only after evaluating it. Whether it's
something read or heard, critical thinkers strive to find the objective truth. In doing this, these
employees evaluate by considering possible challenges and solutions. This process of vetting new
information and considering outcomes is called evaluation.
2. Consider the source
Next, you should consider where you are getting your information from. For example, if the new
information comes from an advertisement, understanding that the ad is a marketing technique designed
to sell a product will help you evaluate potential bias. Each piece of information you receive was given to
you by someone with the motivation to exchange knowledge. Critical thinkers evaluate the source by
considering their motivation for providing information.
3. Ask lots of questions
Asking questions is an important skill to master if you are trying to perfect your critical thinking skills.
When presented with information, you need to decide what questions will help you evaluate it better.
Some examples include:
In what ways can this problem be solved?
Who is providing this information?
Why is this information being provided?
What other perspectives exist on this topic?
What research exists on the issue?
4. Follow up with research
Before you can form your own opinion using critical thinking, you need to do your own research. Once
you've brainstormed a list of questions that need answers, you can use resources like the internet, to
learn what you can about the issue. If you decide to look online, look for reputable information from
sources like syndicated news sites, educational institutions and nonprofit organizations. Other options
are to use resources like the encyclopedia, or review materials at your local library.
5. Form an opinion
With answers to critical questions, you can form your opinion. In this step, you can be confident that
you are basing your opinion on logical, factual information because you've followed the steps to thinking
critically.
Creative thinking is learning to generate and apply new ideas in specific contexts, seeing existing
situations in a new way, identifying alternative explanations, and seeing or making new links that
generate a positive outcome. This includes combining parts to form something original, sifting and
refining ideas to discover possibilities, constructing new ideas and objects, and acting on some gut
feeling. The products of creative work can be complex such as investigations and performances, digital
and computer-generated output, or creation of virtual reality. We can carry out creative thinking
through brainstorming, listing of ideas, systematic linkages, etc.
Note: What is creative thinking?
Creative thinking is a way of looking at things (problems or situations) from different angle or fresh
perspective that suggests hitherto unknown positions or unorthodox solutions. Creativity is, therefore,
our ability to form something new out of what’s presented. It’s our ability to think differently and
provide new angles and perspectives to a solution. This can translate to a new solution that wasn’t there
or even the realization that a problem doesn’t need a solution at the moment or at all.
Some Examples of Creative Thinking
The list of creative thinking examples is endless. In most situations, these examples will boost your
creative thinking as well so I encourage you to try them out yourself:
a) Designing anything from a logo, to a simple webpage layout, to a poster and more
b) Creating a lesson plan for a group training course
c) Writing in a journal, a blog, or any social platforms
d) Creating a test or quiz from scratch just for fun
e) Brainstorming project ideas at work, or decor/renovation ideas at home
f) Finding procedures to improve the quality of a product or service
g) Suggesting solutions to improve a product or service

Benefits of Creative Thinking
The following are 8 reasons why you are advised to be creative in your everyday life:
a) Thinking creatively adds value not only to your life but also to the life of others. Translating your
thoughts into beautiful work, projects ‘yourself’ clearly into the world you live in.
b) Creative thinking helps you become self relying and more confident. You can think on your own
without the help of others making you a stronger, truly-happy person.
c) By thinking creatively you become true to yourself. You accept who you are without worrying
about other peoples’ judgments.
d) Thinking open-mindedly gives you a reason to wake up every morning to start exploring new
ideas and thoughts. It makes your life worth living.
e) Creative thinking can bring out hidden talents that you have not noticed before. Instead of just
nagging about a problem, it helps you discover new opportunities that you haven’t been aware
of.
f) Thinking ‘out of the box’ makes you feel satisfied at all phases of your life. You never feel that
you have reached a dead end instead you are always ready to explore new challenges. You have
the ability to see what others can’t see.
g) Being creative helps you express your feelings allowing you to be whatever you want to be in
this world.
h) The more experienced you get with thinking creatively, the easier it becomes to master difficult
situations you may face in your life.
Characteristics of Creative Thinkers
a) Awareness of creativity: Do you acknowledge that you are creative? If you don’t you will find it
hard to access creative thinking. If you are, say it loud and proud.
b) Original: Are you happy not walking with the crowd? Do you dislike wearing what everyone else
is wearing? It’s hard to be original in an increasingly homogenous world, but to be creative we
have to at least seek it.
c) Independent: Can you work on your own and be happy when you are out of steps with others?
Being independent requires a lot of critical thinking about your views and biases.
d)
e) Risk-taking: We hear this often in the corporate innovation lingo—if you are not prepared to fail
you are less likely to succeed. Learn to take intelligent risks.
f) High Energy: Lazy people go for easily available solutions to problem. Most often problems
require a bit of brain and hard work. Think of those moments when you feel really high energy
and ask what it took to get you to that point and then think about how you could use that
energy.
g) Curious: Unfortunately curiosity is very hard to teach, but you can foster it by being aware of
how easily you accept answers and how often you want to know more. Be curious. Learn to
investigate. Love reading and finding out new things about everything you can think about.
h) Sense of humour: This is one of my favourite traits because I think that fun is very under-rated!
Always try to develop a sense of humor in whatever you are undertaking. It will keep you
engaged. Next time you are goofing around and someone makes a harsh remark, remind that
the Nobel Prize winning physicist Richard Fenyman was the ultimate practice joker (and my
personal hero).
i) Capacity for fantasy: I think it’s sad how much we give up on fantasy as we grow up. We get into
the ‘real world’ and we get too busy for dreaming. Make time for it and give into it – don’t feel
guilty about day-dreaming. Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time. Think widely and wildly.
There is more in the universe than you know.
j) Attracted to complexity/ambiguity: Increasingly we are expected to have answers to everything

and that makes us shy away from issues that we can’t answer. Think about being happy with not
knowing and luxuriating in it. There’s nothing wrong with saying “It’s complex, I’m going to think
about it.” Fall in love with thinking about complex things. The brain loves such activities.
k) Artistic: If you grow up and you are told (as I was) that you are no good at art (and to be fair I am
not a very good drawer), you can think that you aren’t artistic. But look at other areas of your
life, how you like to cook, plan your garden, what you are going to wear, how you arrange things
in your house and start to note how artistic you are.
l) Open-minded: You can’t be creative if you aren’t willing to see things differently. Challenge
yourself to defer judgment, explore options and see what comes up.
m) Be Thorough: There’s this image of creativity as being slap-dash, the ideas person coming up
with ideas that others have to implement. But actually creatives give things a lot of thought and
will think things through to the end. Look at Steve Jobs - highly creative but also incredibly
detailed.
n) Needs alone time: Research shows us that the best ideas actually come up when you are on your
own. The social pressure of being in groups can act to stymie ideas and creativity. Creative
people recognize need to be alone and learn into it.
o) Perceptive: If you can’t see what’s going on, you can’t come up with new ideas. Creative people
are perceptive, they think and perceive with their whole body.
p) Emotional: We are taught to make logical decisions, to be rational, to take the emotion out of it.
But there’s nothing wrong with some times making emotional decisions - most of our big
decisions like who we marry and where we live and how many children we have are emotional
decisions and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
q) Ethical: I like to think that creative people see that everything is connected and that unethical
activities have an impact.
Creative Thinking Tools and Techniques
Read and write small notes on each of the following tools and strategies
a) Brainstorming
b) SCAMPER
c) Mind Mapping
d) Random Word Input
e) Analogies and Metaphors
f) Reversal
g) Assumption Reversal Techniques
h) Wishful thinking
i) Six thinking hats
j) Picture Stimulation
What Influences which creative tools to use
a) organizational Culture
b) Style of facilitator/teacher/CEO
c) The nature and complexity of the problem to be solved

In both critical and creative thinking, we form concept as a mental activity that helps us compare,
contrast and classify ideas (thinking or reasoning during communication to others). Almost all that we
communicate is a product of reasoning or thinking and the actual communication is done through
arguments.
But, what is the meaning of argument?
An argument is a set of claims (statement, propositions), one of which, known as the conclusion, is
supposed to be supported by the rest or others, called premises. That means an argument has premise
and a conclusion.
A premise is that claim/proposition/statement which provides grounds or reasons in support of the

conclusion. Premises are supposed to provide reasons in support of the conclusion. In an argument, a
conclusion follows from the premises.
EXAMPLE ONE:
Premise 1: All human beings are mortal.
Premise2: Mathew is a human being.
Conclusion: Therefore, Mathew is mortal
EXAMPLE TWO:
Premises: There were five apples in the basket. Now there are only four apples on the basket.
Conclusion: Therefore, one apple is missing.
Premises are declarative sentences that are either true or false. Not all sentences are however
premises/ statements e.g. questions, proposals, suggestions, commands and exclamations. These
sentences are neither true nor false.
Purpose of Argument
The purpose of an argument is to present ideas to others so as (1) to change people’s points of view or
persuade them to accept new points of view; and (2) to persuade people to a particular action or new
behavior.
KEY IDENTIFICATION OF ARGUMENTS
An argument occurs only when someone gives a set of premises to support or prove a conclusion. This
intention is often expressed by the use of inference indicators. Inference indicators are words or phrases
used to signal the presence of an argument. There are two kinds of inference indicators:
- Premise indicators
- Conclusion indicators
A premise indicator signals that the sentence to which it is prefixed is a premise.
A conclusion indicator signals that the sentence to which it is prefixed is a conclusion.
Examples
Conclusion indicators: Therefore, Thus , Hence, So, Then, Accordingly, Consequently, This being so ,It
follows that, Which implies that, Which entails that, Which proves that, Which means that, From which
we can infer that, As a result, We may deduce that, Subsequently…
Premise indicators: For , Since, Because, Assuming that, Seeing that, Granted that, The reason is that, In
view of the fact that, As implied by the fact that, Given that, In light of the fact that …
Note: The statement that immediately follows a conclusion indicator is the conclusion, while that that
follows a premise indicator is a premise.
There are two major ways human beings think or reason as they make their arguments in
communication. These include:
- Deductive
- Inductive
DEDUCTIVE REASONING
Deduction is a mode of reasoning from the universal/general to the particular. It is type of reasoning
where the premises provide perfect evidence for the conclusion. In other words, the reasoning flows
logically from the premises to the conclusion. In a deductive argument the premises contain all the
information needed to make a conclusion.
The way I want you to understand deductive argument is as follows:

In deductive reasoning, the premises support the conclusion in such a way that if premises are true, it is
impossible for the conclusion to be false. That is to say, if the premises are true, then the conclusion must
be true.
If a human being is thinking or reasoning deductively. It is important to check whether their deductive
reasoning is valid or invalid. That means a deductive argument is either valid or invalid. Therefore, an
argument is valid if the conclusion follows logically from the premises and invalid if it does not follow
logically from the premises.
Examples:
All university students are clever. Jane is a university student. Therefore, Jane is clever.
Other forms of deductive arguments
Hypothetical or conditional
This is an argument of the type “if---------then----“, in such an argument the part introduced by ‘if’ is
called the antecedent, while that introduced by ‘then’ is the consequent.
It is important to know that the usage of these terms does not imply doubt.
A valid form of conditional argument in logic is called ‘affirming the antecedent’. The structure is of this
form:
If A, then B
Therefore, B
Example
If the rate of inflation increases, then, prices in the shops will rise.
The rate of inflation increases
Therefore, the prices in the shops will rise.
In hypothetical reasoning avoid incidents where you “Affirm, the consequent”.
For instance:
If A, then B
B
Therefore, A
This is an example of bad reasoning or thinking.
Illustration: If the rate of inflation increases then prices in the shops will rise, prices in the shops have
increased. Therefore, the rate of inflation has increased.
The third example of conditional argument which is valid is called “denying the consequent.
If A, then B
Not B
Therefore, not A
If the rate of inflation increases then prices in the shops will rise. Prices in the shops have not risen.
Therefore, the rate of inflation has not increased.
Another common mistake/fallacy is that of identifying the antecedent”.
If A, then B
Not A
Therefore, not B
Illustration: If the rate of inflation increases then prices in the shops will rise. The rate of inflation has
not increased. Therefore prices in the shops have not risen.
INDUCTIVE REASONING
Inductive is a mode of reasoning that involves drawing general or universal conclusions from many
specifics/particular experiences or instances. It is an operation of the mind by which we infer from
particular case or cases; we make judgment that it will be true in all cases which resemble the former in
certain assignable respects.
It is the process by which we conclude that what is true of certain individuals of a group is true of the
whole groups or that it is true in similar circumstances at all times.
Induction is a process of influence which proceeds from the known to the unknown or from facts
observed to facts unobserved.
The way I want you to remember inductive reasoning is as follows:

An inductive reasoning is where the premises provide only probable support for the conclusion. There is
therefore lacking that logical necessity between the premises and the conclusion. The conclusion is a
matter of probability and not certainty.
In other words, the premises in inductive reasoning don’t give full reasons/evidence/grounds for the
truth of its conclusion; they only provide some grounds for it.
The way I want you to understand inductive reasoning is as follows:
In inductive reasoning, the truth of the premises if granted, only offers a partial or probable support to
the truth of conclusion. That is to say, if truth of the premises of an inductive argument is accepted then
the truth of its conclusion is only probable, but not guaranteed.
Inductive arguments are usually characterized as strong or weak arguments depending on the
probability level which the premises confer upon the conclusion.
Example (Strong)
There are 100 mangoes in a basket.
70 of the mangoes picked at random are found to be rotten.
Therefore, probably all the 100 mangoes in the basket are rotten.
Example (Weak)
There are 100 mangoes in a basket
10 of the mangoes picked at random are found to be rotten.
Therefore, probably all the 100 mangoes in the basket are rotten.
These two ways of reasoning, inductive and deductive, are of great importance because many of our
beliefs about the world are developed by these methods of reasoning. For example, our knowledge in
mathematics, science, technology, and engineering are product of deductive and inductive reasoning. Of
more importance is the fact that these two ways of reasoning are central to critical and creative
thinking.
In summary, critical and creative thinking is about “Thinking”, but it is a type of thinking that is
purposeful, intentional, and productive or directed at achieving something. It requires you to use a
sequence of thinking tools (inductive and deductive) in an increasingly sophisticated way especially
whenever you encounter problems or unfamiliar information or new ideas. When you understand how
to think or reason well, it makes you more confident and autonomous in developing ideas that are
unique and useful in problem solving.
Barriers/Impediments to Critical and Creative Thinking
1. Egocentric Thinking
Egocentric means putting oneself at the center. Egocentric thinking is acting like you know everything
even evidence is plenty that you do not know much as you think. Although egocentric behaviors are less
prominent in adulthood, overcoming egocentrism can be a lifelong process. Egocentric thinking is a
natural tendency to view everything in relation to oneself. This type of thinking leads to the inability to
sympathize with others or analyze and evaluate various perspectives. Sadly, since most egocentric
people are not willing or cannot see this character flaw within themselves, this increases the difficulty in
overcoming the barrier.
2. Groupthink
Groupthink is a phenomenon that occurs when a group of individuals reaches a consensus without
critical reasoning or evaluation of the consequences or alternatives. Groupthink is based on a common
desire not to upset the balance of a group of people. Groupthink can lead to unhealthy decision-making
patterns. Like egocentric thinking, it is difficult to overcome. Breaking the cycle requires individuals to
stand apart from the group and question opinions, thoughts, and popular ideas.
3. Drone Mentality
If you have a drone mentality, this means you don’t pay attention to what is going on around you. A
drone mentality can sneak up on anyone at any time. Daily routines often lead to a drone mentality and
can prevent or cause a loss of critical thinking skills.
4. Social Conditioning
Irrational assumptions and stereotyping normally lead to social conditioning that is detrimental to being
critical in thought. It does this by blinding us from the realization that we are even making assumptions
and stereotyping in the first place. The ability to think outside of the spectrum is a great asset because
most learners do not realize they are being conditioned to think a certain way.
5. Biased Experiences
Personal biases can prohibit critical thinking because they prevent the thinker from being fair, inquisitive
and open-minded. This kind of thinking can also prevent an individual from using experience, reasoning
and common sense to make informed decisions.
7. Arrogance and Intolerance
True critical thinkers do not welcome arrogance and intolerance into their minds. It is nearly impossible
to find the best solution to a problem with a close-minded mindset. Without critical thinking skills,
individuals often react thoughtlessly and recklessly to situations. What they should do, however, is to
assess and take responsibility for their choices while accepting the rewards or consequences that follow
those choices.
8. Confirmation Bias
Confirmation bias is where people seek only evidence that supports their views and disregard contrary
points. This bias forms the foundation of “echo chambers,” where people with similar beliefs group
together and assure each other that their view is the correct one. While it’s normal and reasonable to
seek the company of those with similar views and interests, it can be highly detrimental to managers
when they only seek advice from “yes people.” Part of the critical thinking that’s so important in
management is to explore ideas contrary to one’s own and to evaluate them appropriately.
In conclusion it is important to note that for engineering students and future engineers, critical and
creative thinking is very crucial. This is because in engineering is about problem-solving or providing
solutions to problems in society. During engineering projects that solve problems, you handle a lot data
or information, and this requires you to have an analytical frame of mind or intellectual faculty to filter
data. It is also crucial because engineering works or projects demand attentiveness, accuracy and
fidelity, systematization, clearness of actions and practical thinking in decision-making. In short, you are
studying this course because to be a great engineer you must have technological method of problem
solving.
References
Sternberg, R. J., & Leighton, J. P. (2004). The nature of reasoning: Teaching for thinking. Washington, DC:
Cambridge University Press.
Paul, R., & Elder, L. (2004). Critical thinking…and the art of close reading, Part III. Journal of
Developmental Education, 28(1), 36-37.
Halpern, D. F. (2007). The nature and nurture of critical thinking. In R. J. Sternberg, H. L. Roediger, & D. F.
Halpern (Eds.), Critical thinking in psychology. New York: Cambridge University Press.

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Lecturer- Mr.

UCCC 1102 - CRITICAL AND CREATIVE THINKING

2. CRITICAL AND CREATIVE THINKING

Note: What Is Critical Thinking?

Steps of Critical Thinking

1. Identify the problem or question.

2. Gather data, opinions, and arguments.

3. Analyze and evaluate the data.

6. Make a decision/reach a conclusion.

Once you’ve reached a conclusion, present it to all stakeholders.

The importance of critical thinking

1. Some professions require it

3. Critical thinkers are happier

4. Being well-informed is a bonus

How to improve critical thinking skills

1. Evaluate new information

2. Consider the source

3. Ask lots of questions

In what ways can this problem be solved?

Who is providing this information?

Why is this information being provided?

What other perspectives exist on this topic?

What research exists on the issue?

4. Follow up with research

Note: What is creative thinking?

Some Examples of Creative Thinking

b) Creating a lesson plan for a group training course

c) Writing in a journal, a blog, or any social platforms

d) Creating a test or quiz from scratch just for fun

e) Brainstorming project ideas at work, or decor/renovation ideas at home

f) Finding procedures to improve the quality of a product or service

g) Suggesting solutions to improve a product or service

Benefits of Creative Thinking

Characteristics of Creative Thinkers

j) Attracted to complexity/ambiguity: Increasingly we are expected to have answers to everything

Creative Thinking Tools and Techniques

d) Random Word Input

e) Analogies and Metaphors

g) Assumption Reversal Techniques

i) Six thinking hats

What Influences which creative tools to use

c) The nature and complexity of the problem to be solved

But, what is the meaning of argument?

A premise is that claim/proposition/statement which provides grounds or reasons in support of the

Premise 1: All human beings are mortal.

Premise2: Mathew is a human being.

Conclusion: Therefore, Mathew is mortal

Conclusion: Therefore, one apple is missing.

KEY IDENTIFICATION OF ARGUMENTS

A premise indicator signals that the sentence to which it is prefixed is a premise.

A conclusion indicator signals that the sentence to which it is prefixed is a conclusion.

The way I want you to understand deductive argument is as follows:

Other forms of deductive arguments

The rate of inflation increases

Therefore, the prices in the shops will rise.

In hypothetical reasoning avoid incidents where you “Affirm, the consequent”.

This is an example of bad reasoning or thinking.

Another common mistake/fallacy is that of identifying the antecedent”.

The way I want you to remember inductive reasoning is as follows:

The way I want you to understand inductive reasoning is as follows:

There are 100 mangoes in a basket.

70 of the mangoes picked at random are found to be rotten.

There are 100 mangoes in a basket