Friday, January 13, 2012

Attributes of a Critical Thinker


  • asks pertinent questions

  • assesses statements and arguments

  • is able to admit a lack of understanding or information

  • has a sense of curiosity

  • is interested in finding new solutions

  • is able to clearly define a set of criteria for analyzing ideas

  • is willing to examine beliefs, assumptions, and opinions and weigh them against facts

  • listens carefully to others and is able to give feedback

  • sees that critical thinking is a lifelong process of self-assessment

  • suspends judgment until all facts have been gathered and considered

  • looks for evidence to support assumption and beliefs

  • is able to adjust opinions when new facts are found

  • looks for proof

  • examines problems closely

  • is able to reject information that is incorrect or irrelevant

Ferett, S. Peak Performance (1997)