Foundations of Critical Thinking
Module 1:
Understanding Critical Thinking
- What is critical thinking and why
it matters
- Characteristics and mindset of a
critical thinker
- Real-world examples of critical
thinking in action
Module 2:
Barriers to Critical Thinking
- Identifying cognitive biases,
emotional influences, and assumptions
- Recognizing mental shortcuts and
flawed reasoning
- Techniques to overcome thinking
barriers
Module 3:
Fundamentals of Reasoning
- Deductive vs. inductive reasoning
- How reasoning supports sound
decision-making
- Identifying weak arguments and
unsupported claims
Module 4:
Logical Fallacies
- Common logical fallacies and how to
avoid them
- Practice exercises: Spot the
fallacy, Analyze the argument
- Group discussion on flawed
reasoning in real-life scenarios
Module 5:
Applying Logic to Everyday Problems
- Structuring thoughts logically for
problem-solving
- Hands-on activity: Analyzing
everyday decision situations
Application and Practice
Module 6:
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Frameworks
- Overview of structured approaches:
Socratic Method, IDEAL model
- Decision-making tools: SWOT, Six
Thinking Hats
- Hands-on exercise: Applying
frameworks to real challenges
Module 7:
Asking Powerful Questions
- Difference between open, probing,
and clarifying questions
- Techniques to drive deeper analysis
and understanding
- Practicing question-driven
discussions
Module 8:
Critical Thinking in Teams
- Encouraging diverse perspectives
and healthy debate
- Managing groupthink and building
collective reasoning
- Facilitating critical discussions
in meetings
Module 9:
Evaluating Evidence and Sources
- Assessing credibility and
reliability of information
- Avoiding misinformation and
cognitive traps
- Hands-on: Evaluating evidence in a
case scenario
Module 10:
Case Studies and Personal Action Plan
- Analyzing business, workplace, and
ethical dilemmas
- Group presentations and discussions
- Developing a personal critical
thinking improvement plan
Summary, feedback,
and course wrap-up
