Critical thinking: reasoned decision making from Coursera

Making decisions in today's world, a world increasing in complexity, with broad changes and uncertainty, creates the need of approaches that allow us to discern the real problems and the causes that create them. Identifying these problems, in most cases, requires challenging the assumptions on which we base our judgments, regarding the world and its realities.

Critical thinking could be defined, as "that way of thinking - on any subject, content or problem - in which the thinker improves the quality of his thinking by seizing the inherent structures of the act of thinking and by subjecting them to intellectual standards". Critical thinking helps making decisions within a company, selecting the best action for the organization.

In this course of critical thinking the students will learn the tendencies, approximations and assumptions on which their reflections are based, and the conditions and the outcomes derived from their ways of thinking. This reflective thought is the active, careful and persistent examination of all beliefs in the light of the fundamentals that support them and their conclusions.

The reasoned decisions that the world requires, occur in many different areas, especially in business decisions, related to strategies, in the solution of problems in organizations, in the solution of social problems and in corporations’ social and ethical responsibility. In this online course the approaches will be oriented to analyze the critical thinking required in these areas.

What's inside

Syllabus

Topic 1. Thinking for our times

Topic 2. Evaluating our ways of thinking

Topic 3. Elements and standards of critical thinking

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores critical thinking, a core skill for decision-making in business and beyond

Taught by instructors Eduardo Pérez Gorostieta, who are recognized for their work in critical thinking

Covers the elements and standards of critical thinking, which are foundational concepts for decision-making

Students will learn to articulate their decisions, a key skill for effective communication and persuasion

Examines critical thinking in business decision-making, social problem-solving, and corporate social responsibility, which are highly relevant topics

Course materials may include videos, readings, and discussions, providing a mix of media for learning

Reviews summary

Practical critical thinking for decisions

According to students, 'Critical thinking: reasoned decision making' is a highly practical course offering actionable strategies for improved decision-making. Learners praise its clear, structured approach, which simplifies complex topics into digestible modules. Many highlight its effectiveness in helping them challenge assumptions and apply frameworks to real-world scenarios. While a few desired more hands-on activities, the course receives overwhelmingly positive feedback for enhancing professional growth and building a strong foundation in critical thinking.

Blends foundational theory with practical business examples.

"It balances the philosophical aspects of critical thinking with practical business case studies, which I found valuable."

"I personally prefer more hands-on activities, but the theoretical grounding was solid and provided a good framework."

"While comprehensive in theory, a few more real-world, interactive exercises would have been beneficial for application."

Lectures and materials keep learners highly engaged.

"The instructor's explanations were clear and kept me engaged throughout. Their enthusiasm for the topic was contagious."

"I found the readings and videos to be very insightful and well-produced. The content was always thought-provoking."

"The course content was engaging and prompted a lot of self-reflection. I was constantly thinking about the material."

Well-organized and easy to follow, even for complex topics.

"The four topics built progressively, making complex ideas clear and easy to grasp. Each module flowed logically from the last."

"I appreciated the logical flow from evaluating thinking to articulating decisions. It made learning critical thinking feel natural."

"The modules were well-structured, allowing for a steady understanding. I never felt lost or overwhelmed by the material."

Provides highly applicable tools for professional settings.

"I found the concepts immediately applicable to my work in strategy. This course really helped me approach problems in a structured way."

"The course equipped me with practical tools to analyze complex business problems. I can now identify root causes much better."

"Really helped me in making more reasoned decisions at my organization. I can now apply these principles daily."

Significantly improves analytical and decision-making abilities.

"My ability to challenge assumptions and identify root causes vastly improved after taking this course. I feel more confident."

"I feel much more confident in approaching complex problems and making reasoned choices both professionally and personally."

"Truly a valuable course for sharpening one's critical thinking capabilities. I learned to think more deeply about issues."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Critical thinking: reasoned decision making with these activities:

Find an expert mentor to guide you

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Finding an expert in the field of critical thinking to mentor you will provide you with personalized guidance and support, which can help you accelerate your learning and achieve your goals faster.

Browse courses on Critical Thinking

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Research and identify potential mentors
Reach out to the mentor and request a meeting
Discuss your goals and expectations

Attend a workshop with other students

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Attending a workshop with other students will allow you to learn from experts in the field, network with peers, and gain practical experience.

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Research and find a relevant workshop
Register for the workshop
Attend the workshop

Watch video tutorials on critical thinking

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Watching video tutorials on critical thinking will provide you with a structured and engaging way to learn about the fundamental principles and techniques.

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Search for video tutorials on critical thinking
Watch the videos, taking notes on key points
Apply the techniques you learn in your own critical thinking

Six other activities

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Read "Critical Thinking and Decision Making" by Tony Epstein

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Reviewing this book's content will help you grasp the theoretical principles, methodologies, and analytical tools that will be discussed throughout this course.

View How to Become Innovative on Amazon

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Read through the book, taking notes on key concepts
Gather your materials: book, notebook, and pen
Summarize each chapter
Complete end-of-chapter exercises
Review your notes regularly

Do critical thinking exercises

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Doing critical thinking exercises regularly will help you strengthen your analytical skills, improve your problem-solving abilities, and enhance your overall cognitive function.

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Find critical thinking exercises online or in books
Set aside time each week to complete the exercises
Review your answers and identify areas for improvement

Write a blog post on a critical thinking topic

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Writing about critical thinking will help you refine your understanding of the concepts, apply them to real-world scenarios, and share your knowledge with others.

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Brainstorm a topic to write about
Research your topic thoroughly
Write a compelling introduction
Develop your main points in the body paragraphs
Provide a thoughtful conclusion

Lead a peer-led discussion on critical thinking

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Leading a discussion will allow you to practice your critical thinking and communication skills, while also helping others to learn and engage with the material.

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Prepare discussion materials and a plan
Facilitate the discussion, encouraging active participation
Summarize the key points at the end

Mentor another student in critical thinking

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Mentoring another student will allow you to solidify your understanding of the principles of critical thinking by explaining them to others, and you'll also be able to help someone else develop their critical thinking skills.

Browse courses on Critical Thinking

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Find a student who is interested in learning about critical thinking
Develop a plan for mentoring
Mentor the student, providing guidance and support

Volunteer your time with a community organization

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Volunteering with a community organization will provide you with real-world experience that may broaden your understanding of critical thinking, as well as make a positive impact on your community.

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Research and identify a community organization that aligns with your interests
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteering opportunities
Volunteer your time and effort

Career center

Learners who complete Critical thinking: reasoned decision making will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Business Analyst

Business Analysts are increasingly responsible for making sense of data and driving change within organizations. Professionals with the ability to make evidence-based, rational decisions in complex scenarios will have a clear advantage in this field. As data becomes increasingly critical for organizations, the tools and concepts taught in Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will help you take the next step in your Business Analyst career.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Management Analyst

Management Analysts help organizations improve their efficiency and effectiveness. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex organizational issues, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that executives can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as a Management Analyst, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this in-demand field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Management Analyst

System Analyst

Systems Analysts are responsible for analyzing and designing computer systems. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex systems, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that other engineers and stakeholders can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as a System Analyst, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this in-demand field.

See salaries and explore the career path for System Analyst

Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for planning and executing projects. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex project constraints and risks, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that stakeholders can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as a Project Manager, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this in-demand field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts help government agencies develop and evaluate policies. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex social and economic issues, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that policymakers can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as a Policy Analyst, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this important field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Consultant

Consultants help organizations solve problems and make better decisions. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex issues, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that executives can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as a Consultant, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this in-demand field.

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Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data to help organizations make better decisions. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex data, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that executives can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as a Statistician, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this in-demand field.

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Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to help organizations make better decisions. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex problems, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that executives can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as an Operations Research Analyst, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this in-demand field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Risk Manager

Risk Managers are responsible for identifying and managing risks. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex risks and uncertainties, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that executives can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as a Risk Manager, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this important field.

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Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for managing the development and launch of new products. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex customer needs and market conditions, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that executives can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as a Product Manager, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this dynamic and growing field.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers play a critical role in the development of new technologies and products. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex software systems, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that other engineers and stakeholders can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will build a foundation for your career as a Software Engineer. The course will help you to develop the skills needed to think critically about software systems, identify risks, communicate your findings, and make sound decisions.

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User Experience Designer

User Experience Designers are responsible for designing the user experience for products and services. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex user needs and behaviors, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that other designers and stakeholders can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as a User Experience Designer, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this emerging field.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help organizations make better decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will build a foundation for your career as a Data Analyst. The course will help you to develop the skills needed to think critically about data, identify trends, and communicate your findings in a way that is clear and concise. With the skills gained from this course, you will be well-positioned for success in this dynamic and growing field.

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Market Research Analyst

Market Research Analysts are responsible for collecting and analyzing data about markets and consumers. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex information, and to be able to communicate findings in a way that executives can understand and use to make decisions. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will provide you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as a Market Research Analyst, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in this dynamic and growing field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Research Analyst

Investment Analyst

Investment Analysts are responsible for evaluating and recommending investments. To be successful, it is critical to be able to think clearly and rationally about complex financial information, and to be able to make sound judgments about the future. Critical Thinking: Reasoned Decision Making will equip you with the thinking tools that you need to succeed as an Investment Analyst, and help you build a foundation for a successful career in the financial sector.

See salaries and explore the career path for Investment Analyst