What is Critical Thinking?

Critical thinking is the innate ability to rationally make a connection between different ideas with a complete grasp of reasoning. In general, it’s the intellectual ability to conceptualize, analyze, gather, and evaluate information to serve a purpose. When one deliberately practices critical thinking, they are known to be a skilled critical thinker.

Critical thinking skills in the workplace prove to be advantageous for many reasons, including but not limited to having a distinguished identity as an employee. In addition, critical thinking boosts productivity, enhances your ability to solve problems, and is a must-have for creative work.

How to Learn Critical Thinking?

A defining characteristic of critical thinking is that one actively learns instead of merely processing information. In that regard, learning critical thinking begins the instant one processes information deliberately to apply it for a purpose. But, for a formal learning experience, you can learn critical thinking through:

• Books - Online or offline reading can greatly hone your critical thinking skills. Apart from reading on the subject itself, exposing yourself to a wide range of literature sharpens your critical thinking skills as you engage with the text on various levels.
• Online critical thinking courses - Self-paced online courses consider the needs of learners of all proficiency. Such courses are full of engaging exercises that hone one’s aptitude for thinking rationally and logically.
• Using a habit tracker - As active learning is a core component of critical thinking, building a habit is crucial. Instead of simply observing, the learner must be proactive in their approach to the subject. Habit trackers are immensely useful in instilling self-discipline and focus.

Why is Critical Thinking Important?

In a global, knowledge-driven economy, critical thinking takes precedence. The growing demands of the workplace require the ability to think fast and flexibly, analyze information, and draw accurate conclusions. It’s also essential to integrate multiple perspectives while approaching a problem. This is where critical thinking comes into play.

To develop a commendable work ethic, you must be self-reflective and possess the ability to introspect. In this regard, critical thinking lends objectivity to the process, which, in turn, becomes an effective self-evaluation instrument. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs report, critical thinking is one of the top must-have skills in the next five years.

All in all, critical thinkers have the capacity to take a holistic view of life as well as work. It forms the foundation of a liberal, democratic, and inclusive social fabric that ultimately shapes the economy.

How Critical Thinking Can Impact Your Career

Critical thinking confers considerable edge as a potential employee. An aptitude for the same makes better decision makers, managers, and leaders. Virtually every level and role entails the need for critical thinking.

Skilled critical thinkers enable one to assess situations correctly, be it an internal issue at the workplace or emerging market trends. As a result, such individuals can better decide on the best course of action, the next move in advancing their career, and the most appropriate business strategies for the organization as a whole. Put simply, critical thinking is possibly the ultimate skill to possess, be it as a potential employee or the next CEO of the company.

Why Take an Online Course at Emeritus?

Each Emeritus online course is designed keeping key learning outcomes in mind by a team of experts. We use the backward design methodology to develop instruction for learners of all ages. This enables us to craft unique, interactive, learning experiences that include a combination of assessments, hands-on activities, skill application, and more.

Emeritus also collaborates with the best universities and faculty around the world to curate the course curriculum that can effectively tackle present challenges in the industry, while preparing you for the trends and risks in the future. Our courses consist of assignments, exams, capstone projects, networking opportunities, a fine balance of practical and theoretical concepts, and the opportunity to learn from top minds in the industry. This adds to the holistic experience we try to provide for each learner.

We are also focused on providing courses that are standardized in quality. This is done by adhering to standards set by a global organization called Quality Matters which is focused on providing quality standards for online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments. The rigorous criteria ensures all our learners invest in quality education which is easily accessible and affordable.

Can I Work Full-Time While Learning Critical Thinking Skills Online?

Critical thinking is more of a life skill. Even the smallest of our day-to-day tasks require decision-making. An online critical thinking course is similar but more structured and systematic. So, it is possible to pursue such courses while working full-time.

How valuable is an online certificate?

The most experienced professional in any field benefits immensely from an online critical thinking certificate course. Certified courses take a systematic approach to problem-solving. Proof of one’s ability to assess situations intelligently, gauge risks, and implement the appropriate strategy significantly boosts one’s employability in current times.