Critical Thinking & Decision Making

Description

Evaluating information, making decisions and problem solving happens continually. On average we make as many as 50 decisions before we start work every day. Despite all the natural decision making that goes on and the problem solving we do, some people are very uncomfortable with having to make decisions. The answer rests in our ability to identify options, research, take time to define critical thinking means and learn these skills. The ability to clearly reason through problems and to present arguments in a logical, compelling way has become a key skill for survival as a leader. Using these processes to lead can take the anxiety out of problem solving and make decisions.

Objectives

Course Objectives

Define critical and non-critical thinking.

Prepare and present powerful arguments.

Identify your critical thinking style(s), including areas of strength and improvement.

Discuss thinking styles

left/right brain thinking and whole-brain thinking.

Examine and practice the critical thinking process.

Improve key critical thinking skills, including active listening and questioning.

Use analytical thought systems and creative thinking techniques.

Barriers to good decision making and explore how to get around them.

Analyze information to clearly describe problems, differentiate between facts and information.

Learn to clearly explain why something is a particular way.

Dealing with Assumptions and how they can be a major impediment to critical thinking.

Common sense: an overlooked thinking tool.

Learn necessary skills for critical thinking: questions, research, and active listening.

Think creatively to contribute to the team solution.

Implement, evaluate, and follow a plan for making decisions.

Target audience

Individual Contributors, Supervisors, Managers, Directors

1 - Understanding Critical Thinking

2 - The Critical Thinking Process

3 - Dealing with Assumptions

4 - Critical and Creative Thought Systems

5 - Making Decisions

6 - The Problem Solving Model & Toolkit

7 - Making Good Group Decisions

8 - Analyzing and Selecting Solutions

9 - Planning and Organizing

There are no prerequisites for this course.

Single Course Price:

$1150

Course Schedule