Critical thinking is the ability to analyze information in order to form judgments. This is a crucial skill for solving problems and evaluating statements. In this course, learners receive valuable practice:

1) asking good questions
2) gathering necessary information
3) evaluating this information to reach conclusions

Five specific skills are the focus of this course:

1) Determining Importance - After a task or problem is defined, learners must figure out which details matter and which don't. They will ask questions like "What information do I need?" and "What information can I ignore?"

2) Zooming Out  - First glances can be deceiving. This skill is all about stepping back to look at the bigger picture. When approaching a situation, learners will ask, "Is there something I'm overlooking?" and "What other information could be useful here?"

3) Thinking with Nuance - Not everything should be explained in simple black-or-white terms. It's vital to appreciate differences and tell unlike things apart. Learners will want to know: "Is this situation more complicated than it is being described?"

4) Thinking in Probabilities - Many decisions require considering how likely something is to happen. Students will learn about expected value and updating probabilities as events unfold. They will ask, "What different results might occur, and how likely are they to happen?"

5) Thinking Flexibly - Sometimes we get things right on the first try, and never need to adjust. However, many situations require regular reevaluating to improve and optimize results. Learners will ask, "Has something changed?" and "Should my thoughts/actions change, as a result?"

Critical thinking helps people become better informed, better decision makers, and better problem solvers. Sign up to get practical instruction today!