LO2 Apply critical reasoning

and thinking to a range of

problem-solving scenarios
  According to Richard Paul (2003) Critical thinking
is the intellectually disciplined process of actively

Critical
and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing,
synthesizing, and/or evaluating information
Thinking gathered from, or generated by, observation,
experience, reflection, reasoning, or
communication, as a guide to belief and action.
  Critical reasoning is the process of actively and
systematically analyzing and evaluating

Critical
information, arguments, and situations in a logical
and thoughtful manner. It involves the ability to
Reasoning think independently, assess the quality of
evidence, identify logical flaws, and make well-
informed decisions.
 
Problem-solving is a cognitive process that

Problem
involves discovering, analyzing, and resolving
problems. It is a crucial skill in various aspects of
Solving life, including personal, professional, and
academic domains. Effective problem-solving
typically follows a systematic approach.
  Define the Problem:
 Clearly articulate the issue or challenge that needs
to be addressed.
 Identify the specific aspects or elements of the
problem.

 Understand the Context:

Steps  Consider the broader context in which the problem

Involved in exists.
 Understand any relevant background information or
Problem- conditions.

Solving  Generate Possible Solutions:

 Brainstorm and generate a list of potential solutions
or approaches.
 Encourage creativity and consider both conventional
and unconventional ideas.
  Evaluate Solutions:
 Assess the advantages and disadvantages of each
potential solution.
 Consider the feasibility, cost, and potential outcomes
of each option.

Steps  Choose the Best Solution:

 Select the solution that aligns with the defined goals
Involved in and criteria.

Problem-  Consider the long-term implications and potential for

success.
Solving  Develop an Action Plan:
 Outline the steps needed to implement the chosen
solution.
 Identify resources, timelines, and responsibilities.
  Implement the Solution:
 Execute the action plan and put the chosen solution
into practice.
 Monitor progress and make adjustments as
necessary.

Steps  Evaluate the Outcome:

Involved in  Assess the effectiveness of the implemented

solution.
Problem-  Determine whether the problem has been

Solving successfully resolved.

 Learn from the Experience:

 Reflect on the problem-solving process.
 Identify lessons learned and areas for improvement.
  Iterate if Necessary:
 If the problem persists or if new challenges arise, be
willing to revisit and adjust the solution.
 Iterative problem solving may involve refining
strategies based on feedback and experience.

Steps  Collaboration and Communication:

Involved in
 Engage in effective communication with others
involved in the problem-solving process.

Problem-  Collaborate with team members to leverage diverse

perspectives and expertise.
Solving  Critical Thinking:
 Apply critical thinking skills to analyze the problem
and potential solutions.
 Consider the implications and consequences of
different decisions.
  Creativity:
 Incorporate creative thinking to explore innovative
solutions.
 Challenge assumptions and think outside the box.

 Time Management:
Steps  Prioritize tasks and allocate time effectively during

Involved in the problem-solving process.

 Consider deadlines and the urgency of the issue.
Problem-  Resilience:
Solving  Be adaptable and resilient in the face of setbacks or
unexpected challenges.
 Learn from failures and use them as opportunities
for improvement.
Specification of the
Problem
  The definition of a problem is a clear and concise
statement that describes an issue, challenge, or
Definition of obstacle that needs to be addressed. It serves as
the starting point for problem-solving and provides
the Problem a foundation for understanding the nature and
scope of the problem
  Description: Clearly articulating the problem and
its specific characteristics. This often involves
answering questions such as who, what, where,
when, and why.
Key  Scope: Defining the boundaries of the problem to
Components avoid ambiguity. Understanding what falls within
the problem's scope and what does not is crucial
of a Problem for effective problem-solving.

Definition  Objectives: Stating the desired outcomes or goals

of solving the problem. What does a successful
resolution look like? What are the specific
objectives to be achieved?
  Relevance: Explaining why the problem is
important or why it requires attention. This helps
in prioritizing and allocating resources
appropriately.
 Constraints: Identifying any limitations or
Key restrictions that may affect the solution space.

Components Constraints could be related to time, resources,

regulations, or other factors.
of a Problem  Context: Providing background information and
Definition context to help stakeholders understand the
factors influencing the problem. This can include
historical data, precedents, or related events.
Analysis and  Analysis and clarification of a problem involve a
more in-depth exploration and understanding of
Clarification the issue at hand. This phase is crucial for

of a Problem developing effective solutions.

  Gather Information:
 Collect relevant data and information related to
the problem. This could include statistics, reports,
and any other pertinent documentation.
 Identify stakeholders and gather their
Steps and perspectives. Understanding how different parties
Considerations perceive the problem can provide valuable
for Analysing insights.
and Clarifying a  Define Scope and Boundaries:
Problem  Clearly outline the boundaries of the problem.
What is included, and what is excluded from
consideration? Define the problem's scope to
avoid unnecessary complexity.
  Identify Root Causes:
 Dig deeper to identify the root causes of the
problem. This involves looking beyond surface-level
symptoms to understand the underlying issues
contributing to the problem.

Steps and  Prioritize Issues:

Considerations  Determine which aspects of the problem are most

critical or urgent. This helps in focusing efforts on
for Analysing the most impactful areas.
and Clarifying a  Consider Interconnections:
Problem  Examine how different elements of the problem
may be interconnected. Understanding these
relationships can provide a more holistic view of
the situation.
  Explore Alternatives:
 Encourage brainstorming and exploration of
alternative problem definitions or perspectives. This
can lead to novel insights and solutions.

 Seek Clarification from Stakeholders:

Steps and  Engage with stakeholders to clarify any ambiguities
Considerations or uncertainties related to the problem. Ensure that
for Analysing everyone involved has a shared understanding.

and Clarifying a  Use Problem-Solving Tools:

Problem  Utilize problem-solving tools and methodologies,
such as SWOT analysis, fishbone diagrams, or mind
mapping, to structure and guide the analysis
process.
  Consider Constraints:
 Identify any constraints, limitations, or barriers that
may affect potential solutions. Understanding these
constraints helps in crafting realistic and feasible
strategies.

Steps and  Evaluate Impacts:

Considerations  Assess the potential impacts of the problem on

different stakeholders, processes, or systems.
for Analysing Understanding the consequences helps in
and Clarifying a developing targeted solutions.

Problem  Iterate as Needed:

 The process of analysis and clarification may involve
iteration. As new information is gathered or insights
are gained, be prepared to revisit and refine the
problem definition.