Sherfield and Moody Cornerstones Topic: Think

Critical Thinking Can Help You… Focus on relevant issues/problems Gather key information Understand and organize thoughts and facts Analyze problems and causes Mange priorities and develop plans Assist in problem-solving skills Help you control your emotional reactions Produce new knowledge Help you determine the accuracy of information Assist you in detecting bias and persuasion in argument

Eight Steps to Critical Thinking

Emotional Intelligence Coping with social and emotional demands Relates to: personal achievement career success leadership life satisfaction As powerful as I.Q.

Amygdala Part of the brain’s emotional system Protects us when we are afraid or upset Feelings before thought “Fight or flight?” based on previous experience

Look at Things Differently Common issues with uncommon eyes Known problems with new skepticism Everyday conflicts with probing curiosity Daily challenges with attention to detail Clues and patterns

Types of Questions Questions of Fact – objective Questions of Preference – subjective Questions of Judgment – logic/evidence

Problem Solving

Fact v. Opinion A fact can be proven (objectively verified) An opinion has no objective proof To distinguish fact v. opinion: Take nothing for granted Consider who is making the assertion Listen for what is not said

Fallacious Arguments Ad baculum Ad hominem Ad populum Ad verecundiam Bandwagon Scare tactic Straw argument Appeal to tradition Plain folks Patriotism Glittering generalities

Creative Thinking Aspect of critical thinking Producing something that is uniquely yours Requires internal resourcefulness Characteristics: compassion, courage, truth, dreams, risk-taking, innovation, competition, individuality, curiosity, perseverance

Topic Reflections Use credible, reliable sources Learn to distinguish fact from opinion Be flexible and avoid generalizations Use emotional intelligence and restraint Avoid stereotyping and prejudice Reserve judgment Do not assume – do research and ask questions Distinguish symptoms from problems