FINAL EXAM

Natasha Powell
May 5, 2014
Final Exam
Dr. Langley
INT 322-90

CRITICAL THINKING
Critical thinking is defined as the mind examining and
evaluating what has been produced, making its judgments,
and where appropriate refinements (Ruggiero,2012, p. 78). It is important to understand critical thinking as it is
the key to successful problem solving and issue analysis
(Ruggiero,2012, p. 5). Creative thinking is equally as
important as the mind produces different conceptions of
the problem or issue at hand, view different ways of
dealing with it, and then comes up with possible solutions
or responses (Ruggiero,2012, p. 7). Both skills are equally
important when try to formulate a plan to solve problems
or issues.

CRITICAL THINKING CONTINUED

In order to begin to think critically, you must first understand
the problem or issue at hand. You can gain full
understanding by processing the information and
determine what it means. During this time you will need to
figure out what you already know about the problem or
issue and based on what you know what information is
valid. You are going to examine and evaluate the your
information in order to determine what is factual and
what is not.

CRITICAL THINKING CONTINUED

One of the important qualities to have as a critical
thinker is to be a great listener. In order to gain
a full understanding you must listen attentively.
It may be a good idea to summarize what the
issue or problem is to ensure you have a clear
understanding. You also will need to ask
questions for clarity.

CRITICAL THINKING CONTINUED

Next you would begin
brainstorming. During this
process you will discuss the
possible solutions with team
mates if applicable. You will
determine what are the
necessary steps to take in
order for the problem to be
solved. You would also
determine the most efficient
approach to solving the
problem or issue. This would
also be a good time to utilize
any members prior
experience with the problem.

CRITICAL THINKING CONTINUED

The last step would be to create an action plan.
You have already determined the best course of
action to solve the problem. You list the steps
and the course of action that will be taken. You
can also notate any follow up items if applicable.

EXAMPLE
Mary is a senior graduating from high school and has applied
to five colleges. She has received acceptances to three of
the five colleges. Mary must now make a decision as to
which college she will attend.

Mary has been accepted to three colleges and she must decide
which school is best for her. The first thing to consider is how
much will each college cost to attend for four years. How much
financial aid will she receive, how much in scholarships, and out
pocket cost for her parents? Which school is the best in terms of
her major?

Mary will then consult with her parents to get their input and to
see how they feel about her choices of schools. Does she know
anyone that has attended any of the schools that can give her
some input?

EXAMPLE CONTINUED

Mary will take all the information she has gathered and bring it
back to her parents.
They will discuss the pros and cons of each school as well as factor
in how much it will cost out of pocket for her to attend
Mary and her parents will adhere to deadlines of responding and
make a final choice

REFERENCES
Ruggiero,V.R. (2012).The art of thinking: A guide
to critical and creative thought(10thed.).
Boston, MA: Pearson.