Kysha Martin
MGT/350 Critical Thinking Strategies In Decision Making
Mr. Jerry Abendroth
August 15, 2010
Critical Thinking Application Paper According to Elder and Paul, “critical thinking is the art of thinking about thinking while thinking in order to make thinking better” (Elder & Paul, 2008, p. 1). Critical thinking evaluates, analyzes, and improves thinking habits (Elder & Paul, 2008). Without critical thinking, if would be impossible to make effective, productive, and vital work-related decisions. This essay will provide an example of personal experiences in applying critical thinking to a work-related decision, and the importance and benefits of critical thinking in the decision-making process. Individuals scarcely evaluate how they make decision and the process in which those decisions come from. Yet, employers except employee to make critical decisions daily. According to Martin, problem-solving skills are a key component which companies are looking for when interviewing potential employees (Martin, 2002). Therefore, learning how to make suitable critical decisions is vital to a person’s job function especially when ones decisions affect someone else’s decisions. For example, I currently work as a social skills trainer for a group of individuals with high-functioning Asperger’s Disorder. In our groups we address an array of problems and concerns. If I demonstrate ineffective decision making skills and techniques, most likely my consumers will do the same. Therefore, an improper decision can adversely affect the people whom I serve. When referring to critical thinking and job-performance or job duties numerous situations come to mind. The use of critical thinking is used in almost all aspects of employment responsibilities, from my interactions with coworkers to completing consumer assessment or aftercare plan. For example, current policy and procedure requires all employee to treat others and consumers with
References: Kirby, G.R. & Goodpaster, J.R. (2007). Thinking (4th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall. Martin, S. (2002). A high regard for thinking skills;[the city advertiser, 2nd edition]. New Straits. Retrieved on August 13, 2010 from http://proquest.umi.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/pqweb?did=148814151&sid=24&Fmt=3&clientid=13118&RQT=309&VName=PQD Paul, R. & Elder, L. (2006). Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your Learning and Your Life (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River: NJ: Prentice Hall.