I would define critical thinking as making rational decisions on your own. Most people
do not realize that they use critical thinking in their everyday life, even if it is
something simple as to planning how you are going to make it on time. Critical
thinking in my opinion is nothing more than problem solving.
From what I have learned in this weeks lesson, the characteristics of a critical thinker
are: effective communication, flexibility, tolerance for ambiguit, open-mindedness,
and problem solving. As we have learned this week these characteristics are what
forms a great critical thinker.
A common barrier I see in critical thinking is avoidance. I can admit that I am very
commonly guilty of this as instead of fixing a conflict I have with someone, I would
much rather avoid them. One can avoid this barrier by coming to an agreement with
the other party. Even if you still don't see their view, coming to an understanding can
avoid this barrier.
The most interesting thing I have learned this week was that their are barriers that
can stop you from thinking criticaly. Most people encounter these barriers because
they are only interested in seeing their point of view and are not willing to be open-
minded.
