Critical Thinking

Course Objective: Critical thinking is the intellectually disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating information gathered from, or generated by, observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication, as a guide to belief and action. In its exemplary form, it is based on universal intellectual values that transcend subject matter divisions: clarity, accuracy, precision, consistency, relevance, sound evidence, good reasons, depth, breadth, and fairness.

Learning Content:

➢ Describe what critical thinking is and explain why it is valuable in making decisions
➢ Understand critical thinking as it pertains to the workplace
➢ Describe and apply the basics of strategic reasoning and problem-solving
➢ Explore the importance of raising vital questions and problems, formulating them clearly and precisely
➢ Learn how to gather and assess relevant information, using abstract ideas to interpret it effectively
➢ Understand how to think open-mindedly within alternative systems of thought, recognizing and assessing, as need be, assumptions, implications, and practical consequences
➢ Learn key steps to communicate effectively with others in figuring out solutions to complex problems
➢ Understand the process of systematic problem solving
➢ Identify and overcome barriers to critical thinking that can stall decision making
➢ Explore the value of thinking Outside-the-Box: Challenging the Premise (What if? What other?)

In this course, real-world examples are shared during exercises to illustrate how to effectively utilize critical thinking methods.

Facilitator: Karen Jacobs brings over 30 years of expertise in Training, Management, Marketing, Strategic Planning, Market Research, Leadership Coaching and Process Improvement. She is a partner of The Integrity Team, Inc. a full-service training and coaching organization focusing on growth of individuals and their organizations. She is an independent consultant for DuPont Sustainable Solutions. Previously, she was a Director with over 110 matrixed employees with a Fortune 200 Gas and Electric Public Utility. She has specific experience in leading organizational change, conflict resolution, problem solving, and implementation of strategic service initiatives.

Registration begins at 9:00 am.

Member: $75.00 ($70.00 for each additional attendee from the same agency)

Non Member: $100.00