...Critical Thinking and Decision-making “Critical thinking is the intellectually disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating information gathered from, or generated by, observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication, as a guide to belief and action” (Sciven & Paul, 2004). Moreover, critical thinkers use decision-making models as a guide to identify an issue, cause and desired outcome. These models are major components of the critical thinking process, as it determines the effectiveness of the end result. This paper will discuss a career development issue using The University of Phoenix (UOP) decision-making model as a guide. This model is divided by three phases: (a) framing the problem, (b) making the decision, and (c) evaluating the decision. Critical Thinking “Critical thinking is that mode of thinking - about any subject, content, or problem - in which the thinker improves the quality of his or her thinking by skillfully taking charge of the structures inherent in thinking and imposing intellectual standards upon them” (Paul & Elder, 2001). To think critically, one must identify, analyze, dissect, evaluate, reconstruct information to make sound decisions and achieve the best results. In addition, decision-makers must also outline potential risks, losses and alternatives to improve the process or resolve any foreseeable issues. Lastly, they also test, implement and monitor the finalized...
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...I think there have been many times in my life where I have used the principles of critical thinking in making sexual decisions ( and many when I have let attraction and emotions guide my decision making).It has always been much harder to put critical thinking into practice when I let my emotions get in the way. However I believe that the basic principles of critical thinking apply in most situations you need to ask yourself the questions that apply to that particular situation. I believe that the time when principles of critical thinking were most important in my decision to have sex, were when my ex husband and I were near the end of our relationship and he said he wanted to have another child, in the attempt to save our relationship. I had to ask my self questions like: How would this decision affect those around us (our children, parents ect..)? How would having sex with the intent of having a child make me feel about myself? How would it affect me physically and emotionally? Am I considering it because I want to or because he is pressuring me? Would it improve our relationship or make it worse? I think that the only requirement for using critical thinking is to ask yourself why you are considering a particular course of action. Ask questions that will give you the information (incoming and what you already know), to determine your actions. Critical thinking enables me to ask the right questions so that I might arrive at the correct answers, which in turn becomes...
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...Strategies For Decision Making: Definition Of Critical Thinking Definitions Conceptualizing- If you have an idea for something, or if you understand something fully, you conceptualize it. Analyzing-Is to study or examine something carefully in a methodical way. Synthesizing- The combining of two or more things to create something more complex. Definitions in My Own Words Critical Thinking- When an individual can analyze a situation or problem gathers all information and makes an informed decision. Conceptualizing- Thinking of an idea or concept. Analyzing-To thoroughly look over something. Synthesizing- When more than one idea is combined When I applied this type of thinking in my own life Conceptualizing- I fully understand the process for the issuance radio equipment to the Afghanistan government. In order for the Afghanistan military and police units to receive radio equipment they must, first submit a formal request to the Afghanistan Ministry of Interior (MOI), if approved the MOI sends request to the Afghanistan Ministry of Interior (MOI) Logistics Officer, who review to see if he have requested equipment on hand. If equipment is on hand at his/her level they will issue equipment to the requesting unit. If, equipment is not on hand the MOI Logistics Officer will forward request to the U.S Military at Resolute Support Headquarters, who will review request and either approve or...
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...I try to maintain the view of a skeptic as a constant guard against making poor decisions about sexual activity. I consider this a critical thinking tool that allows me to better analyze the situation from both side of the issue. What will happen if I do this? What will happen if I don't do that? I also try to hold my own center without letting any ones else's views sway my opinion. In out society, peer pressure is always a strong factor in making sexual decisions. It is important to learn how to ignore peer pressure when making decision that are crucial to a decision that involves sexual activity. Getting a sexually transmitted disease is a critical aspect of that decision and having a baby is another one. Asking whether I am putting myself at risk for one of those thing happening is something to consider when making those type of decision. Can I this person be HIV positive? These can be life threatening decision that must and have to be made. The critical thinking process is very appropriate for both male and female when considering sexual decision. Most young people are very impulsive when it comes to making sexual decision. They are inclined to act on the spur of the moment without even thinking about what there impulsive behavior can lead to in the long run. They do not apply critical thinking to this emotionally charged situation. I would not engage in sex with someone who I did not know or someone who I was not familiar with on a long term basis...
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...Individuals find the need to make decisions in every aspect of their lives. When individuals use critical thinking to make a decision, the result is usually a success. This essay will provide a better understanding of critical thinking. It will describe critical thinking and share how it relates to decision-making in a work-related application. I will share a personal experience of when I applied critical thinking to a work-related decision. The essay will further discuss the importance and benefits of critical thinking in the decision-making process. Critical Thinking and Decision Making in a Work-Related Application When making work-related decisions, critical thinking is an important aspect. Critical thinking is identifying and evaluation evidence to assist in decision making (“What Is Critical Thinking”, 2011). Decision making is the thought process used when making a logical decision using the options available (BusinessDictionary.com”, 2011). When reviewing the definitions of critical thinking and decision making, one will find that individuals who make decisions must use critical thinking to determine the best solution for their problem. For example, if an individual at work has to make a decision, he or she will use critical thinking to determine what is best for the organization. If not, he or she may make a decision that harms the organization. Without using critical thinking, an individual may miss a detail of a solution; therefore, he or she may overlook the...
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...Critical Thinking Application MGT350 - Critical Thinking: Strategies in Decision Making January 9, 2011 Dave Ball Abstract Critical thinking is an important part of everyday life. Many decision models have been created to support critical thinking. Those models are based on three core elements, framing or identifying the problem, gathering and qualifying supporting information to support a decision, and evaluating the decision. By applying these critical thinking techniques the benefits of critical thinking can be realized. This paper will briefly discuss critical thinking, its importance and benefits, and present the reader with a real-world example of critical thinking. Critical Thinking Application Critical thinking is defined by Paul and Elder (2006) as “thinking explicitly aimed at well-founded judgment, utilizing appropriate evaluative standards in an attempt to determine the true worth, merit, or value of something” (Section Introduction, p. xxiv). Critical thinking assists a decision maker to make the right decision based on the information available. Decisions are an everyday part of life. Some believe that an average person could make as many as 40,000 decisions in an average day. Whereas not all of these decisions require critical thinking skills, many decisions that directly affect those around us should apply critical thinking techniques to ensure an informed decision is reached. The University of Phoenix decision model is a set of techniques...
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...Critical Thinking Application Pamela Devold MGT/350 August 15, 2011 David Grier Critical Thinking Application Critical thinking is the approach of thinking, about any topic, matter, or dilemma, which the thinker enhances the feature of his or her thinking by capably taking charge of the formations characteristic in thinking and impressive intellectual morals upon them. This information explains the meaning of critical thinking. The information also provides explain of a personal experience one has with utilizing critical thinking to a work-related outcome. Finally, one explains the significance and advantages of critical thinking within the decision-making methods. Critical thinking is a rich perception, which has been developing over the past 2500 years. The word "critical thinking" has its backgrounds in the late 20th century. Critical thinking is the knowledgeably well-organized process of skillfully and actively intellectualizing, synthesizing, analyzing, and applying; evaluating information collected from, or created by, communication, observation, reasoning, experience, and reflection, as an example of action and belief. In its standard form, it is constructed on universal knowledgeable values, which go beyond subject matter divisions: objectivity, breadth, depth, good reasons, sound evidence, clarity, truthfulness, precision, consistency, and significance (Paul & Elder, 2006). Critical thinking requires the examination of those elements or structures...
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...Critical thinking is an important process to use in both professional and personal settings. Using critical thinking takes time to adapt to and does not come natural. Individuals that use critical thinking must practice this technique to fully understand the process. Critical thinking provides many benefits to individuals that can acquire it. Understanding critical thinking and how to fully use it will help a person understand why things are done. Critical thinking is important in a professional life, without critical thinking one may not fully grasp the concept of what is going on. Critical thinking can be defined as the intellectually disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating information gathered from, or generated by, observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication, as a guide to belief and action. In its exemplary form, it is based on universal intellectual values that transcend subject matter divisions: clarity, accuracy, precision, consistency, relevance, sound evidence, good reasons, depth, breadth, and fairness (Foundation for Critical Thinking, 2009). This being said, critical thinking is when information is gathered and applied to the decision based on evidence gathered, not emotions. Critical thinking is important to use since this allows a person to draw logical conclusions and rational decisions. Critical thinking is a skill that every person should use...
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...Running head: CRITICAL THINKING Critical Thinking Application Paper University of Phoenix MGT/350 Critical Thinking: Strategies in Decision Making Richard E Botelho Sr. Bruce A. Fanger Sr. 06/27/11 There are many benefits and specific characteristics as well as important aspects to critical thinking and it has a direct impact on decision-making. In making decisions, the critical thinking process is important and your success and happiness in life will be increased by your ability to think critically. The process in which facts, information, and theories are gathered and analyzed is critical thinking. Effective decisions are made by using the critical thinking process. Critical thinking separates facts from opinions and also evaluates options, and is a valuable process which should be used by everyone. Critical thinkers demonstrate some characteristics such as courage, humility, empathy, integrity, and fair-mindedness. A critical thinker uses these characteristics to help them to make positive decisions that they will be happy about in the future. Critical thinkers know the limitations of their decisions when they are humble. Critical thinkers are also courageous enough to trust their own reasoning skills and they are empathetic enough to comprehend the weight of their decisions on others. Critical thinkers also hold integrity, which demonstrates honesty and realistic perception of end results. An important characteristic of critical thinkers is fair-mindedness...
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...Critical Thinking and Ethics John Smith University of Phoenix GEN201/ Foundations for University Success January 14th 2012 Critical Thinking and Ethics Critical thinking and ethical decision making both play a vital role in both your academic and your career success as well. The relationship between critical thinking and ethics is an important one because it is a determining factor in the decisions we make and the outcome of those decisions. The definition of critical thinking is “disciplined thinking that is clear, rational, open-minded and informed by evidence”(dictionary.com, 2015). Our decisions not only have effects for us as individuals but also others and it’s important for us to weigh those effects when making any decisions. In order for us to make an informed decision and become a good critical thinker we must consider the six levels of critical thinking. Steps one and two of the critical thinking process revolve around remembering and understanding. These two steps are crucial in any critical thinking or decision making process as you must first remember and completely understand what you are reading or what you are discussing with someone. It is important to take the time out to make sure you understand because a misunderstanding can lead to a completely different outcome than the desired one. The third and fourth steps are applying and analyzing. This is the step where you can identify cause and effect of your decisions and analyze...
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...Critical Thinking Application Paper University of Phoenix MGT 350 Oretha Johnson The purpose of this paper is to provide an example from personal experience in applying critical thinking to a work-related decision, and the importance and benefits of critical thinking in the decision-making processes. Using a work related decision and personal experience, conveying the importance of critical thinking in this decision-making process will reveal itself in the form of a question, and an opinion (Wilder, 2001). Critical thinking is the mode of thinking about a problem, subject or content in which the thinker improves the quality of his or her thinking by skillfully taking charge of the structures inherent in thinking and imposing intellectual standards upon them (Paul & Elder, 2006). The court system is a demanding industry and requires a great deal of critical thinking. I retired in March 2012 as the Administrative Coordinator of Operations for the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office. This job had high-level responsibilities and authority as well as tough decision making. I used critical thinking as a measuring rod and a means of making effective decisions. There was an employee on my team that was not performing her job duties. She was a likable person and was favored by the boss. On another note, she was experiencing challenges at home and with her health. I had to find a logical reason for the cause of the problem, in terms of her work performance. My findings...
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...Critical Thinking and Decision-making Ronald Williams Jr MGT/350 Mar-29-2010 Henry Kelley Critical Thinking and Decision-making To understand the relationship and role critical thinking plays in decision-making, people must first understand the meaning of the terms decision-making, and critical thinking. Illustrating the vast and always changing circumstances around an organization or decision maker, decision-making is not [an assembly line operation, it is messy, chaotic, and a twisted, unshapely, halting flow] (McCall & Kaplan, 1990). Meaning the decision-making process is constantly changing because of the influence of the rapidly changing internal and external factors on the decision maker. To conceptualize critical thinking, look at it as an active process of critical and creative inquiry, an active cognitive approach, and rational assessment of information. This process is, “Based on an understanding and awareness of logical analysis that permit a rational evaluation of arguments” (Sanders & Wiseman, 1994, para. 4). Knowing that decision-making is an ever changing process, with a multitude of influencing factors, and critical thinking is a process influenced by reasoning and logical evaluation of facts, circumstances, and events. Applying the critical thinking process to the decisions made every day will improve, clarify, and target the decisions made to the problem or issue, ultimately improving the ability to make better decisions, communicate...
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...Utilizing Critical Thinking in the Workplace David Zoltun MGT 350 September 27, 2010 Utilizing Critical Thinking in the Workplace Critical thinking is an essential general skill that can be universally applied. Critical thinking is unlike typical methods of thought as critical thinking demands a person remove themselves from issues and approach problems or debates objectively. The author will examine the critical thinking process as applied to University of Phoenix’s nine decision making steps in one of the author’s recent workplace experiences (Decision Making Step, 2010). Utilizing Critical Thinking and Decision Making Steps to Assess a Workplace Decision In August 2010, the author, acting as an assistant manager with a retail auto parts store was faced with a workplace situation that required the utilization of critical thinking. Identify the Problem Identifying the problem is the first step in the decision making process. Critical thinking removes biased thoughts and emotions from the identification process in order to establish a factual statement of the problem (Kirby & Goodpaster, 2007). In the author’s case, a problem was identified: a subordinate was disrupting store functions and affecting local public image. Define Criteria, Goals, and Objectives The second step in decision making processes is to define one’s intent. The criteria, goals, and objectives of a debate will guide one’s debate by determining what should be accomplished. Once...
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...Critical Thinking Application Paper Thinking is a very common in every second in life that many people do realize how important thinking is to how people live. How a critical thinking has been done there is always thinking going on. "The best thinkers use their ability to think well in every dimension of their lives" (Paul & Elder, 2006). In this paper, discussing the definition of critical thinking, my personal experiences with critical thinking, and the importance and benefits of critical thinking in the logical decision-making process. "Critical thinking is that mode of thinking- about any subject, content, or problem- in which the thinker improves the quality of his or her thinking by skillfully taking charge of the structures inherent in thinking and imposing intellectual standards upon them" (Scriven & Paul, 2004). As humans are growing up in school or in family, they are taught to think logically about subjects and decisions that are being made. Critical thinking is more in depth thinking and speaking people to think outside of the box and take a hard look at what they are doing and analyze it to come up with a more effective decision. Everything they know and think is based on something that they have learned or observed in their lifetime and it will continue every day. “The best thinkers analyze their thinking, evaluate their thinking and improve their thinking” (Paul & Elder, 2006). When I think back to situations I have been put in I can see that I was not thinking...
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...Critical Thinking Application Paper Laura Jones Mgt 350 January 10, 2010 Bill Shell Critical Thinking Application Paper A person uses critical thinking daily without realizing what he or she is doing. Critical thinking helps people make decisions, small or large. A person will use critical thinking on a personal level, such as buying a house or a car or even down to whether he or she should buy a shirt. In the business world, people will use critical thinking skills to make decisions that impact the company. As this paper progresses, I will be discussing what critical thinking is, the steps that are taken when using the critical thinking process, an example of how I used critical thinking in the workplace, and the benefits and importance of using critical thinking when making a decision. What is Critical Thinking? According to Dictionary.com critical thinking is defined as “the mental process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating information to reach an answer or conclusion” (2010). Critical thinking in the ideal form is based on broad intelligent values that surpass situational division. By this I am meaning to make use of good critical thinking, one must use accuracy, precision, consistency, relevance to the situation, good reasoning, facts, and clarifying the situation (National Council for Excellence in Critical Thinking, 2009). University of Phoenix has nine...
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