CRITICAL THINKING

http://www.umich.edu/~elements/probsolv/strategy/crthink.htm

Critical Thinking is the process we use to reflect on assess and judge the assumption underlying our own and others ideas and efforts.
Critical thinking involves calling into question the assumptions underlying our customary, habitual ways of thinking and acting and then being ready to think and act differently on the basis of the critical questioning.
Components of Critical Thinking 1. Identifying and challenging assumptions. 2. Recognizing the importance of context. 3. Imagining and exploring alternatives. 4. Developing reflective skepticism.
Creative Thinkers * Consider rejecting standardized formats for problem solving. * Have an interest in a wide range of related and divergent fields. * Take multiple perspectives on a problem. * Use trial-and-error methods in their experimentation. * Have a future orientation. * Have self-confidence and trust in their own judgment. Critical Thinking Involves * Recognizing underlying assumptions. * Scrutinizing arguments. * Judging ideas. * Judging the rationality of these justifications by comparing them to a range of varying interpretations and prospective. * Providing positive as well as negative appraisal.

THE SIX TYPES OF SOCRATIC QUESTIONS
Due to the rapid addition of new information and the advancement of science and technology that occur almost daily, an engineer must constantly expand his or her horizons beyond simple gathering information and relying on the basic engineering principles.
A number of homework problems have been included that are designed to enhance critical thinking skills. Critical thinking is the process we use to reflect on, access and judge the assumptions underlying our own and others ideas and actions.
Socratic questioning is at the heart