Module 1 response: Lorna Beaton

[Lorna Beaton]

Pre-assessment : 21/30

• What is critical thinking?
 
Critical thinking is the ability to take a step back and ask questions and evaluate what you are presented with, using a non-biased approach in order to develop independent solutions based on reality. As Richard Arun, Professor of Sociology at NY University puts it, "The ability to cross examine evidence and logical argument. To sift through the noise."
 
• Why is it important?

Critical thinking allows for the development of independent, non-biased, evidence based solutions to be taken forward.  By not thinking critically you could take your solution down a path of doing 'the same old' and miss opportunities.  Likewise, you could  invest in a new opportunity that is actually not required just because you have listened to one enthusiastic employees recommendation. Restricting your evidence and evaluation base is risky, you could be left with serious draw backs or even miss out on superior solutions. 

• Name someone famous you believe is a critical thinker.

Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister (Head of Scottish Government) of Scotland. 

• Why do you think they are a critical thinker?
Nicola Sturgeon during COVID response has demonstrated her critical thinking by presenting data from various sources and driving solutions to the nation on a daily basis. The varying sources have included sources out with her own direct sources including of course experts, voters but advisers and feedback from other political parties. The FM has  the likes of a 50/50 gender balanced cabinet that assists producing various  perspectives to enable a positive platform of critical thinking.

[Lori Hebert]

Lorna, I emphatically agree with the "sift through the noise" quote. Something I continue to need to work on!

[ofrancesconi]

Lorna/Lori, I agree with the 'sift through the noise', particularly difficult when I'm feeling rushed or under pressure. Great to learn about Nicola Sturgeon and the positive impacts she's had on Scotland. Thanks for sharing,
Liv

[La Tonia A.]

I agree with your summation of critical thinking. As a leader, you must see things through a non-biased, fact-based lens and consider all points of view versus one "enthusiastic " employee. Doing so could help advance the company to the next level and maintain its relevance.

[Gregg Caplitz]

Lorna what an excellent way to define critical thinking. "Sifting through the noise" seems to me to be the essential definition of critical thinking. As with Lorri's reference to Mr. Toyoda I was unfamiliar with Ms. Sturgeon. Again a little research helped. She appears to be a woman who makes her arguments concerning Covid response and the UK's government's policy of austerity utilizing critical thinking in gher approach which differs from many politician's who utilize slogans and appeals to populism. Nice job lorna!

[John Uliano]

Hi Lorna - your statement of "doing the same old" has me thinking of the quote - The most dangerous phrase in the language is, "We've always done it this way." seems like this first assignment, and critical thinking in general, is certainly a proponent of that quote. And sifting through the noise is a wonderful metaphor, although admittedly I foresee that being a challenge for myself.

[laurabierck]

I love that quote, "sifting through the noise". I think it is a great way to describe critical thinking.