WEEK 1 - Introduction

Question 1

what is critical thinking ?

Answer 1

the ability to think clearly and rationally about what to do or what to believe

Question 2

someone with critical thinking skills is able to do the following :

Answer 2

• understand the logical connections b/w ideas
• identify, construct and evaluate arguments
• detect inconsistencies and common mistakes in reasoning
• solve problems systemically
• identify the relevance and importance of ideas
• reflect on the justification of one’s own beliefs and values

Question 3

what are the 6 impotrances of critical thinking ?

Answer 3

1. is a domain-general thinking skill
2. is very important in the new knowledge economy
3. enhance language and presentation skills
4. promotes creativity
5. is crucial for self-reflection
6. is the foundation of science and democracy

Question 4

what is the California critical thinking disposition inventory ?

Answer 4

a psychological test that is used to measure whether people are disposed to think critically

Question 5

what are the seven different thinking habits of the California critical thinking disposition inventory ?

Answer 5

1. truth-seeking
2. open-mindedness
3. analyticity
4. systematicity
   5.confidence in reasoning
5. inquisitivness
6. maturity of judgment

Question 6

is critical thinking the same as being critical ?

Answer 6

no, critical thinking need not involve being argumentative, judgmental or overly critical