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Instead of accepting my definition of critical thinking,
take a moment to build your own definition by synthesizing the significant
components of critical thinking noted below.
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"The ability to analyze facts, generate
and organize ideas, defend opinions, make comparisons, draw inferences,
evaluate arguments and solve problems." Chance,
P. (1986). Thinking in the classroom: A survey of programs, p. 6.
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"A way of reasoning that demands adequate
support for one's beliefs and an unwillingness to be persuaded unless support
is forthcoming." Tama, C. (1989). Critical
thinking has a place in every classroom. Journal of Reading, 33, 64-65.
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"A conscious and deliberate process
which is used to interpret or evaluate information and experiences with
a set of reflective attitudes and abilities that guide thoughtful beliefs
and actions." Mertes, L. (1991).
Thinking and writing. Middle School Journal , 22, 24-25.
How
does a critical thinker approach life?
Think of someone
who possesses good critical thinking skills. How would you describe
him/her? Compare your description of a critical thinking disposition
with that of Facione (1996) in "Critical Thinking: What It Is and Why It
Counts." Has Facione captured the essence of a critical thinker?
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inquisitiveness with regard to a wide
range of issues
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concern to become and remain well informed
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alertness to opportunities to use critical
thinking
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trust in the processes of reasoned inquiry
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self-confidence in one's own abilities
to reason
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open-mindedness regarding divergent
world views
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flexibility in considering alternatives
and opinions
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understanding of the opinions of other
people
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fair-mindedness in appraising reasoning
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prudence in suspending, making or altering
judgments
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honesty in facing one's own biases,
prejudices, stereotypes, egocentric or sociocentric tendencies
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willingness to reconsider and revise
views where honed reflection suggests that change is warranted
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