Critical Thinking for Problem Solving

This course is intended for professionals who want to change thinking patterns to solve workplace problems.

• Discuss core principles of critical thinking

• Analyze the mindset of effective critical thinkers

• Use sound methods of framing problems and thinking critically

• Overcome obstacles to critical thinking and problem-solving

• Practice advocacy and inquiry to obtain information for decision-making

• Use creative thinking tools and methods to solve problems

• Apply critical thinking strategies to solve work-related problems

Defining Critical Thinking

• Definition of Critical Thinking
• Components of Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking Benefits

• Critical Thinking Qualities
• Benefits of Critical Thought

Metacognition

• Defining Metacognition
• Metacognitive Strategies

Critical Thinking Patterns

• Common Traits of Critical Thinkers
• Logical Methods

Neuroscience of Critical Thought

• Origins of Thought in the Brain
• Strategies for Promoting Critical Thought

Styles of Thinking

• Thinking Styles
• Inquiry Modes
• Exercise: Assessing Thinking Styles

Identifying and Articulating Problems

• Problem-solving Models
• Problem Identification
• Articulating the Problem

Decision Criteria and Developing Solutions

• Decision Criteria
• Generating Solutions
• Action Planning
• Evaluating Performance Measures

Obstacles to Solving Problems

• Common Pitfalls of Problem-Solving

Common Critical Thinking Obstacles

• Blocks to Critical Thinking
• Groupthink

Logical Fallacies

• Logical Fallacies

Overcoming Critical Thinking Breakdowns

• Best Practices for Overcoming Breakdowns in Critical Thinking

Action Learning

• Components of Action Learning
• Ground Rules for Action Learning

Active Listening

• Principles of Active Listening

Conflict and Critical Thinking

• The Role of Conflict in Critical Thinking
• Communication Barriers

Managing Conflict for Critical Thinking

• Proactive Approaches to Conflict
• Systems Thinking

Creative Thinking Models

• Defining Creative Thinking
• Creativity Models

Neuroscience of Creative Thinking

• Research in Creative Cognition
• Impact on Problem-Solving

Generating Ideas

• Ideation Techniques
• Using Others to Generate Ideas

Techniques for Breaking Thought Patterns

• Techniques for Breaking Thought Patterns

Guidelines for Applying Critical Thinking

• Topic with Supporting Parablocks

Critical Thinking Culture

• Organizational Culture
• Spheres of Influence