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Critical Thinking Skills for the Professional

Diane Davidson

Have you ever tried to find a solution to a problem only to realize you’ve been focusing on the wrong problem from the very beginning? Or you’ve proposed a solution only to have it shut down by your boss or coworkers? How stressful and defeating is that? With massive changes in our world that seem to create the most difficult of circumstances, both personally and professionally, your skills as a critical thinker and problem solver need to be further developed now more than ever.

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Have you ever tried to find a solution to a problem only to realize you’ve been focusing on the wrong problem from the very beginning? Or you’ve proposed a solution only to have it shut down by your boss or coworkers? How stressful and defeating is that? With massive changes in our world that seem to create the most difficult of circumstances, both personally and professionally, your skills as a critical thinker and problem solver need to be further developed now more than ever.

By the end of this course you will have learned and memorized a practical model to solve problems on your own and with others. These 7 critical steps will ensure that you have looked at a problem from every angle and considered multiple solutions. In fact, this dynamic and holistic approach will help you solve problems once and for all!

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What's inside

Syllabus

Getting Started and Introduction to Problem Solving
In this module, you will be able to apply a model for solving any problem, large or small, in a creative and collaborative way. You will also be able to identify all aspects of a problem and examine role in the problem. You will be able to reframe a goal oriented question.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches a model for solving problems that is both creative and collaborative
Suitable for learners of all levels, as it provides a foundational model for problem solving
Provides practical learning experiences through interactive exercises and hands-on activities
Emphasizes reflective practice through feedback engagement in problem-solving strategies
Offers a multi-modal approach to learning, incorporating various media formats for engaging learning experiences
Taught by instructors with experience in problem-solving training and facilitation

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Reviews summary

Practical critical thinking for professionals

According to students, this course offers a highly practical and actionable framework for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, particularly relevant for the workplace. Learners frequently highlight the effective 7-step model as a cornerstone, providing a clear path to analyze problems and generate solutions. Many found the content engaging and well-structured, directly enhancing their professional decision-making. While largely praised for its foundational strength, some advanced learners suggested it primarily serves as a strong introduction, rather than a deep dive into highly complex or specialized scenarios.
Best for beginners or those new to formal critical thinking.
"While good, I wished for more advanced critical thinking techniques for highly niche or complex scenarios."
"It's a solid introduction to critical thinking, but perhaps not for seasoned professionals already well-versed."
"The course lays an excellent foundation, but it could benefit from more challenging problem-solving exercises for advanced learners."
Modules are well-structured and easy to follow.
"The lectures were clear and concise, and the content was incredibly well-organized, making it easy to absorb."
"I found the exercises and discussions really engaging, which kept me motivated throughout the course."
"The instructor's explanations made complex ideas simple to grasp and apply."
Addresses crucial aspects of presenting solutions and engaging feedback.
"Learning to handle feedback and anticipate objections when proposing solutions was an incredibly valuable takeaway."
"The module on preparing and making recommendations was a real eye-opener, improving my presentation skills."
"Understanding personal triggers and managing reactions helps so much in professional interactions and team dynamics."
Directly enhances critical thinking skills for the workplace.
"The skills taught are directly applicable to my professional role; I've already used them in meetings."
"I feel significantly more confident in approaching and solving workplace issues after completing this course."
"This is a great course for anyone looking to boost their decision-making and problem-solving abilities at work."
Provides a clear, actionable framework for problem-solving.
"The 7-step model introduced is incredibly practical; I can apply it immediately to work challenges."
"I appreciated the clear, actionable steps for tackling complex problems, making it less overwhelming."
"This course helped me adopt a systematic approach to professional issues that I hadn't considered before."

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 Skills for the Professional with these activities:
Review any notes from previous problem solving or critical thinking courses
This activity provides an opportunity to refresh any prior knowledge and skills in critical thinking and problem solving. Understanding foundational concepts and strategies will enhance understanding of new material in the course.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Locate any old notes, readings, or assignments from previous courses related to problem solving or critical thinking.
  • Review the notes to refresh prior knowledge and skills.
Review concepts of critical thinking
Help you recall and familiarize yourself with the fundamental principles of critical thinking.
Browse courses on Critical Thinking
Show steps
  • Review lecture notes or textbooks on critical thinking.
  • Summarize key concepts of critical thinking in your own words.
Organize Course Materials and Resources
Gather and organize all the materials and resources necessary for the course to ensure you have everything you need to succeed.
Show steps
  • Create a designated workspace for course materials.
  • Collect lecture notes, readings, assignments, and other resources.
  • Organize materials logically using folders, binders, or digital tools.
14 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 17 activities
Review Foundational Concepts in Problem Solving
Review the basic concepts and principles of problem solving to strengthen your understanding and prepare for the course.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Review textbooks or online resources on problem-solving.
  • Identify and summarize key concepts and definitions.
  • Complete practice problems to reinforce your understanding.
Read and Review 'Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your Professional and Personal Life' by Richard W. Paul and Linda Elder
Review the key concepts and tools for critical thinking presented in this book to enhance your problem-solving abilities.
View Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read and summarize the main chapters of the book.
  • Identify and apply the critical thinking tools introduced in the book to real-world problems.
  • Reflect on your own critical thinking skills and identify areas for improvement.
Watch Video Tutorials on Problem-Solving Techniques
Watch video tutorials led by experts to learn various problem-solving techniques and strategies.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Identify reputable sources for video tutorials on problem-solving.
  • Watch and take notes on the tutorials, focusing on key concepts and techniques.
  • Apply the techniques to your own problem-solving endeavors.
Complete a series of practice problems on critical thinking and problem solving
Engaging in practice problems provides an effective way to reinforce critical thinking and problem solving techniques. Applying these skills in a practical setting enhances understanding and strengthens cognitive abilities.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Identify a set of practice problems that cover a range of critical thinking and problem solving concepts.
  • Allocate sufficient time to work through the problems.
  • Analyze each problem, identify key information, and develop a logical approach to solving it.
  • Evaluate the solutions and reflect on the problem-solving process.
Solve a variety of problem types
Help you practice applying critical thinking skills to diverse problem scenarios.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Identify different types of problems: logic, analytical, real-world
  • Practice solving problems using online resources or textbooks.
Participate in a peer-learning group focused on problem solving and critical thinking
Engaging in discussions and collaborative problem-solving with peers fosters a deeper understanding of concepts. Exchanging perspectives and approaches to solving problems enriches the learning experience and promotes cognitive development.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Identify or create a study group with classmates who share an interest in critical thinking and problem solving.
  • Establish regular meeting times and create a collaborative workspace.
  • Take turns presenting problems, sharing insights, and working together to find solutions.
  • Provide constructive feedback and encouragement to one another.
Engage in Peer Problem-Solving Sessions
Engage in peer-to-peer problem-solving sessions to gain diverse perspectives and improve your ability to solve complex problems.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Form a small study group with classmates.
  • Identify problems or case studies for discussion.
  • Work together to analyze the problems and develop creative solutions.
  • Provide constructive feedback and support to each other.
Develop a Problem-Solving Plan
Create a detailed plan outlining the steps you will take to solve a specific problem, ensuring a structured and effective approach.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Define the problem statement and identify the desired outcome.
  • Break down the problem into smaller, manageable steps.
  • Identify potential solutions and evaluate their feasibility.
  • Develop an action plan with clear timelines and responsibilities.
  • Monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.
Attend a Problem-Solving Workshop
Attend a workshop led by an expert to gain hands-on experience in applying problem-solving strategies to real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant problem-solving workshops.
  • Register and attend the workshop.
  • Actively participate in the exercises and discussions.
  • Network with other participants and facilitators.
Follow a video tutorial series on advanced problem-solving techniques
Video tutorials provide a structured and engaging way to learn and apply advanced problem-solving techniques. This activity complements the course material by introducing new strategies and perspectives on tackling complex problems.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Search for a reputable video tutorial series that aligns with the course learning objectives.
  • Set aside dedicated time to watch and actively engage with the videos.
  • Take notes, pause to reflect, and apply the techniques presented in the tutorials to the course material.
Practice Brainstorming Techniques
Practice brainstorming techniques to improve your ability to generate creative and effective solutions to problems.
Browse courses on Brainstorming
Show steps
  • Review different brainstorming techniques, such as freewriting, mind mapping, and SCAMPER.
  • Practice each technique by brainstorming solutions to a specific problem.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of each technique and identify which ones work best for you.
Complete Problem-Solving Exercises
Complete a series of problem-solving exercises to practice applying the critical thinking steps and enhance your problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Identify a set of problem-solving exercises or puzzles.
  • Work through the exercises step-by-step, following the critical thinking steps.
  • Analyze your solutions and identify areas for improvement.
Attend a workshop on advanced problem-solving strategies
Workshops provide an immersive and practical setting to enhance problem-solving skills. Engaging with experts and fellow learners fosters collaborative learning and exposes one to diverse perspectives and approaches to tackling complex problems.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Research and identify workshops related to advanced problem-solving strategies.
  • Register for a workshop that aligns with your learning objectives.
  • Attend the workshop, actively participate in discussions, and engage with the provided resources.
Develop a mind map or infographic that summarizes the key principles of problem solving and critical thinking
Creating a visual representation of key principles aids in organizing and consolidating knowledge. This activity encourages a deeper understanding of the interconnections between concepts and facilitates recall.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Identify the fundamental principles of problem solving and critical thinking covered in the course.
  • Choose a mind mapping or infographic tool.
  • Organize and visually represent the principles using colors, shapes, and connections.
  • Review and refine the mind map or infographic until satisfied with its clarity and comprehensiveness.

Career center

Learners who complete Critical Thinking Skills for the Professional will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts are responsible for identifying and solving problems that arise in business operations in a variety of industries. They use their analytical skills to model and analyze complex systems, and they develop solutions that can improve efficiency and profitability. This course can help you build a strong foundation in critical thinking and problem-solving, which are essential skills for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to analyze business processes and identify areas for improvement. They work with stakeholders to develop and implement solutions that can improve efficiency and profitability. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about problems, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Quality Assurance Analyst
Quality Assurance Analysts are responsible for ensuring the quality of products and services. They use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve defects, and they work with other teams to develop and implement quality improvement initiatives. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to identify and solve problems, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to analyze business systems and identify areas for improvement. They work with stakeholders to develop and implement solutions that can improve efficiency and profitability. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about problems, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for overseeing the development and launch of new products. They work with engineers, designers, and marketers to define the product vision, and they use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to ensure that the product meets the needs of customers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about problems, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Software Engineer
Software Engineers use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to design, develop, and test software applications. They work with clients to identify the needs of users, and they develop and implement solutions that meet those needs. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about problems, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Project Manager
Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve risks, and they work with stakeholders to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about problems, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Operations Manager
Operations Managers use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to oversee the day-to-day operations of a business. They work with employees to identify and resolve problems, and they develop and implement solutions that can improve efficiency and profitability. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about problems, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager
Engineer
Engineers apply critical thinking and analytical skills to solve complex problems faced by customers. They take into consideration multiple perspectives to develop innovative solutions, and they also use problem-solving techniques to design and test prototypes and products. To boost your problem-solving abilities as an Engineer, you should enroll in this course today.
See salaries and explore the career path for Engineer
Data Analyst
Data Analysts use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to analyze data and extract insights. They use these insights to develop models and algorithms that can solve business problems. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about data, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to analyze data and extract insights. They use these insights to develop models and algorithms that can solve business problems. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about data, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Business Development Manager
Business Development Managers use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify and develop new business opportunities. They work with clients to understand their needs, and they develop and implement solutions that can help them meet their goals. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about problems, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Development Manager
Consultant
Consultants use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to help businesses solve complex problems. They work with clients to identify the root causes of problems, and they develop and implement solutions that can improve efficiency and profitability. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about problems, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant
Market Researcher
Market Researchers use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to conduct research and analyze data. They use this information to develop insights that can help businesses make better decisions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about problems, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to analyze financial data. They use this information to develop insights that can help businesses make better decisions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this role, including the ability to think critically about problems, to generate creative solutions, and to work effectively in a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Critical Thinking Skills for the Professional.
Cover image
Noise
Save
Pulitzer Prize-winning exploration of the two systems of thinking: System 1, which is fast, intuitive, and emotional, and System 2, which is slow, deliberate, and rational.
Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment
Paperback
$$
(Español) Ruido: Un fallo en el juicio humano / Noise: A Flaw...
Hardcover
$$
(Français) Noise: Pourquoi nous faisons des erreurs de...
Kindle Edition
$$
By Daniel Kahneman Best Seller 2 Boks collection...
Paperback
$$
(Deutsch) Noise (German edition): Was unsere Entscheidungen...
Audible Audiobook
$$
Cover image
Molecular Biology Techniques
Save
Practical guide to critical thinking, covering such topics as argument analysis, logical fallacies, and biases in judgment and decision making.
Molecular Biology Techniques
Paperback
Check
Molecular Biology Techniques
Kindle Edition
Check
Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Save
Guide to the lean startup methodology, a process for developing and testing new products and services with a minimum of waste.
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Hardcover
$$
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Thinking in Systems
Save
Is an introduction to systems thinking, a holistic approach to understanding and solving complex problems.
Thinking in Systems: International Bestseller
Paperback
$$
Thinking in Systems: International Bestseller
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Psychology of Judgment and Decision Making
Save
Comprehensive overview of the field of judgment and decision making, covering such topics as heuristics and biases, decision making under uncertainty, and the role of emotion in decision making.
The Psychology of Judgment and Decision Making...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative...
Save
Guide to design thinking, a human-centered approach to problem solving that emphasizes empathy, collaboration, and iteration.
Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative...
Hardcover
$$
Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Disruptive Innovation Set (2 Books)
Save
Classic work on innovation management, which argues that successful companies often fail to innovate because they are too focused on protecting their core business.
The Disruptive Innovation Set (2 Books)
Paperback
$$
The Disruptive Innovation Set (2 Books)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
About Think
Save
Guide to lateral thinking, a creative problem-solving technique that involves thinking outside the box.
About Think
Paperback
Check
About Think
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Thinking and Deciding
Save
Is an introduction to the cognitive science of thinking and problem solving from a multidisciplinary perspective. It covers such topics as problem representation, biases in judgment and decision making, and the role of creativity and expertise.
Thinking and Deciding
Paperback
$$$
Thinking and Deciding
Kindle Edition
$$
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, Or How to Build the...
Save
Collection of essays on entrepreneurship and innovation, which argues that the key to success is to find a unique and valuable problem to solve.
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the...
Hardcover
$$
Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Art of the Long View
Save
Guide to long-term planning in an uncertain world, covering such topics as scenario planning and adaptive management.
The Art of the Long View
Paperback
Check
The Art of the Long View
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Supercommunicators
Save
Is an exploration of the science of habit formation, and how we can use this knowledge to improve our lives and businesses.
Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret...
Hardcover
$$
Charles Duhigg 3 Books Collection Set...
Paperback
$$$
(Español) Supercomunicadores [Supercommunicators]: Cómo...
Audible Audiobook
$$
(Português) Supercomunicadores [Supercommunicators]: Como...
Audible Audiobook
$
(Deutsch) Supercommunicators: Wie man die geheime Sprache...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Emotional Intelligence
Save
Guide to evaluating psychological research, covering such topics as research design, data analysis, and interpretation of results.
What We Know about Emotional Intelligence: How It...
Paperback
$$
Emotional Intelligence: Science and Myth
Hardcover
$$
What We Know about Emotional Intelligence: How It...
Unknown Binding
$$$
Emotional Intelligence 101 (Psych 101)
Kindle Edition
$
Science of Emotional Intelligence: Knowns and...
Hardcover
$$$$

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Course image
Effort
3 weeks of study, 2-3 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of California, Davis
Instructor
Diane Davidson
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a collection called Professional Skills for the Workplace. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Emotional and Social Intelligence
  2. The Growth Mindset
  3. Adaptability and Resiliency
  4. Critical Thinking Skills for the Professional (viewing)
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches a model for solving problems that is both creative and collaborative
Suitable for learners of all levels, as it provides a foundational model for problem solving
Provides practical learning experiences through interactive exercises and hands-on activities
Emphasizes reflective practice through feedback engagement in problem-solving strategies
Offers a multi-modal approach to learning, incorporating various media formats for engaging learning experiences
Taught by instructors with experience in problem-solving training and facilitation
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