(Solution) 5CO02 (AC1.3) Explain the principles of critical thinking including how you apply these to your own and others’ ideas

Solution

A logical decision-making process based on the evaluation and analysis of pertinent facts is what the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) calls “critical thinking” (CIPD, 2019). For those working in people management, this is a priceless tool for making decisions and solving problems.

According to The Foundation for Critical Thinking (2019),the following are the main principles of critical thinking:

Logic and Consistency: To adhere to this guideline, the reasoning and concepts must be arranged in the proper order. In situations where there appears to be an opposing argument, a critical thinker will ensure that each point builds upon the preceding one.

Keeping an open mind: To adopt this outlook is to be open to new ideas and information and ready to revise one’s previous views accordingly. When it comes to making decisions, people who think critically are less constrained by their assumptions, which allows them to find better solutions to problems and generate more original ideas.

Skepticism: To be sceptical is to have doubts about and not fully believe the information that is being given. We reach the last component of critical thinking when both sceptics insist on proof before drawing any conclusions (Psychology today, 2024). Making ensuring decisions are based on facts and reducing bias are two important goals of this effort.

Applying Critical Thinking to Develop My Own Ideas

Using my analytical and critical thinking skills, I developed a training program at my former employer. I began to question the usefulness of the proposed paradigm due to my inherent scepticism. As the session came to a close, I stood before the participants and used the information they provided to draw conclusions. I then made sure the program made sense and was up to date with the latest learning standards. An important rationale for revamping the training approach was the need to apply critical thinking abilities to the concepts and logic scheme, which led to a dramatic uptick in employee participation.

Thinking Critically About Other People’s Ideas

My buddy once proposed that we all take turns working during one of our team meetings. I wanted to know how this might impede work development and teamwork, so I enquired instead of just nodding. But I was sceptical, so I analysed it rationally and compared it to other instruments of its kind, and I still doubted its efficacy. Using this method, I was able to assess the idea in a realistic and reasonable way, which helped me make a sound choice.I researched case studies from comparable organisations and considered the pros and cons to determine whether flexible hours were feasible. To keep everyone on the same page, I laid out the benefits and drawbacks and offered suggestions for enhancements, such as rearranging core work hours.

Rational and Objective Debate Through Critical Thinking
Using logical techniques to evaluate evidence, critical thinking improves arguments by making it more rational and suitable (CIPD, 2019). This promotes the use of facts rather than urban legends, which should lead to more rational and well-informed discussions and decisions.

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