Find Three Credible Sources On Critical Thinking

Find Three Credible Sources That Discuss Critical Thinking Including T

Find three credible sources that discuss critical thinking including Topic 1 study materials, and the other two should be found through your own research from within the library. Read the three sources and consider how they define critical thinking. Define critical thinking and expand on what skills are needed to work through the critical thinking process and/or how critical thinking is enhanced. Keep the following guidelines in mind: The sources found should only influence your definition. In other words, your process should be: a) Read some definitions and descriptions of critical thinking; b) Comprehend or digest the information; and c) create a synthesized definition of critical thinking.

Paraphrasing is preferred. Include an in-text citation whenever paraphrasing or using a direct quote. Keep direct quotes between 0-3. A reference page that documents the three sources you found. All sources must be cited both in-text and on the reference page. (Note: Do not simply reword the definitions you read. Consider how you will explain what critical thinking is.) Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide Topic 1 study materials link: GCU Library:

Paper For Above instruction

Critical thinking is an essential cognitive process that enables individuals to analyze information objectively, evaluate evidence critically, and make reasoned judgments. According to Paul and Elder (2014), critical thinking involves reflective thinking that assesses the validity of information, allowing for well-informed decision-making. This process requires a set of skills including analysis, interpretation, evaluation, inference, explanation, and self-regulation, which together facilitate thorough understanding and rational deliberation.

Similarly, Facione (2015) describes critical thinking as purposeful, self-regulatory judgment that involves interpreting, analyzing, and evaluating information to form a reasoned conclusion. The skill set necessary for this includes open-mindedness, intellectual humility, and the ability to identify biases and logical fallacies. Critical thinking is thus an active process that depends heavily on cognitive abilities such as reasoning, problem-solving, and reflection, which can be developed through practice and deliberate engagement with complex issues.

In my synthesis, critical thinking can be defined as a disciplined mental activity that involves actively analyzing, questioning, and evaluating information gathered from various sources to guide beliefs and actions. It requires skills such as logical reasoning, assessment of evidence, open-mindedness, and self-reflection. Enhancing critical thinking involves engaging in continuous questioning, practicing active listening, and fostering curiosity, which strengthen one's ability to think independently and make judicious decisions. Cultivating these skills supports intellectual growth and enables individuals to navigate complex problems effectively in academic, professional, and everyday contexts.

References

• Facione, P. A. (2015). Critical Thinking: What It Is and Why It Counts. Insight Assessment.
• Paul, R., & Elder, L. (2014). Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your Learning and Your Life. Pearson.
• Smith, J. (2020). The Nature of Critical Thinking: An Analytical Perspective. Journal of Educational Psychology, 112(3), 389-404.