Challenging Mindsets: 

Reflections on My Critical Thinking Process

Decision making without critical thought is destined for failure. As a public service student, I have been trained to make decisions based on numerous analytical models; however, this skill is worthless without the ability to think critically about the decision being made. Critical thinking is the objective analysis of evidence, observations, and arguments to make a rational and unbiased decision. This requires challenging one’s mindset to avoid biases and fallacies in the decision. I challenge my mindset through critical thinking by analyzing information thoroughly, evaluating arguments critically, and making decisions effectively.

Analyzing Information

Critical thinking begins with gathering and examining information relevant to the issue. This is arguably the most important aspect of critical thinking because it informs arguments and final decisions. Analyzing information looks different depending on the situation with some issues requiring more in-depth research than others. My process for collecting information is driven heavily by curiosity on the subject. Regardless of the situation, I begin collecting and researching information by conducting an internet search of the issue. While this is not an exhaustive method of research, it provides a starting point for my analysis and provides a baseline for future research. This initial search helps me find key words and ideas for a more refined search. I increase the depth of information by expanding my research to books, journal articles, and authoritative sources using the key words and topics found in my initial search. This looks different for every situation. For example, I utilize the STATA manual and books written about data processing to find information on specific data processing tasks, whereas I rely heavily on journal articles to expand my available information on my literature review of oil and gas methane emissions for my graduate assistantship. While collecting information, I evaluate the credibility of the resource by considering the author, objectivity, authority, purpose, and currency of the document. By collecting and analyzing the relevant information on the issue, I prepare to consider a variety of potential solutions. 

Evaluating Arguments

Beyond the facts and figures, a critical thinker must be able to evaluate arguments with an open mind. This involves examining the logic, evidence, and assumptions associated with all potential solutions. The greatest challenge associated with evaluating arguments is avoiding logical fallacies, biases, and inconsistencies within my own evaluation. I avoid these by questioning assumptions, reflecting on scenarios, and applying sound logic to all arguments. Nevertheless, it is difficult to fully avoid bias in decision making without listening to the perspectives of others. While evaluating arguments, I like to work directly with other individuals to present multiple perspectives on different solutions. I utilize deep listening skills, respect, and open mindedness to evaluate the validity of each argument from both my perspective and the other individual’s perspective. For example, I collaborated with 5 industry leaders to gather varying perspectives on my social innovation project regarding agricultural literacy. These perspectives provided me with critical feedback on my ideas as well as other ideas for implementation. Additionally, I seek out contrarian perspectives and opinions by searching research databases and utilizing chat-based artificial intelligence. These sources help challenge my assumptions and biases in order to expand my frame of reference for the issue. This process helps me develop a more nuanced understanding of the issue in order to make a sound decision.

Making Decisions

Finalizing a decision can be the most challenging part of critical thinking because it requires weighing the strengths and weaknesses of all options before making a judgement. My approach to decision making embraces complexity and ambiguity. It is rare in any situation for there to be one best solution; therefore, I attempt to anticipate the challenges, opportunities, and outcomes of each potential solution to avoid oversimplification of a decision. Using the insights gained through analyzing the information and evaluating the arguments, I strive to make well-informed decisions that are both ethical and effective. In my capstone project, I made decisions regarding the research and sampling methods used for the project by taking into consideration client demands, team capabilities, desired methodology, and time constraints. Once the decision has been made, I utilize clear communication and strong leadership skills to inform the affected individuals. This ensures that the decision is understood and applied effectively.

Conclusions & Takeaways

Through reflection on my critical thinking process, I have come to recognize the value of the skill throughout my personal and professional life. I apply critical thinking in my everyday life by analyzing information, evaluating arguments, and making decisions using objective, logical judgements. Critical thinking serves as a guiding principle by which I rely on to navigate both routine and complex tasks.