1. Critical Thinking, Decision Making & Problem Solving

2. Critical Thinking Critical Thinking is the ability to engage in reflective and independent thinking. It also allows individuals to take responsibility for personal decisions and actions. Using the Critical Thinking Process can help individuals solve and/or prevent problems. Critical thinking allows us to make our own decisions regardless of the opinions of others.

3. The Critical Thinking Process 1. Identify and describe the problem.

4. The Critical Thinking Process 2. Discriminate between fact and opinion.

5. The Critical Thinking Process 3. List possible solutions and consequences.

6. The Critical Thinking Process 4. Identify personal and family values that conflict with the decision.

7. The Critical Thinking Process 5. Take a position based on logic. (Make a decision.)

8. Questions to Ask BEFORE Making a Decision Is it against the law, rules or personal values? Is it harmful to me or others? Would it disappoint my family or other people that are important to me? Is it wrong to do? Would I be sorry afterward? Would I be hurt of upset if someone did this to me?