In chapter 2: Small Group Communication, one concept that I
found important was, “Developing Your Critical Thinking Skills.” This concept
is explained by the following: considering different perspectives, clarifying
issues and values, evaluating information, and identifying contradictions. It explains
that by having a different viewpoint on an issue can help you realize that your
own view might not be accurate. When clarifying issues and values, they should
both be clearly stated and understood. When evaluating information, not only
should it be clearly stated, but it should be recognized as to where the
information came from and what is being said is relevant, as well as true. One
should also think abstract and not take things at face value, but actually
further explore what the statement is really trying to say. Incorporating
relevant conclusions is also helpful when summarizing the numerous solutions
found throughout the process of critical thinking. These are some critical
thinking skills that are beneficial to people.
I think that it is very important to develop critical thinking skills because of the fact that it allows you to think logically versus thinking with your emotions. You made an interesting point about incorporating relevant solutions. This is important because when it is easier to identify a problem than it than it is to find the solution. You made a good point of further exploring what the statement is trying to say rather than making assumptions and guesses as to what the meaning is. You didn’t talk much about identifying contradictions which I think is important because of the fact that recognizing similarities and differences in opposing views can make someone’s argument less valid.
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