Critical Thinking

Area of Interest: Capability Systems

"Critical thinking is the intellectually disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating information as a guide to belief and action." Critical thinking is the foundation of effective problem solving and decision making and enables us to avoid common obstacles, test our beliefs and assumptions, and correct distortions in our thought processes.

Critical Thinking short course strengthens your ability to objectively analyze and assess problems accurately, evaluate alternative solutions, and anticipate likely risks. Learn a range of proven tools and techniques readily transferable on the job to identify challenges and respond to them in a structured and considered manner. Gain practical guidance on implementing these skills in your workplace to pressure test ideas quickly and constructively.

Duration: 1 Day

Delivery Mode: On-campus and remote. You choose how you would like to attend.

• Introduction to Critical Thinking and Benefits of critical thinking in the workplace
• Critical thinking as a management skill
• Different thinking styles
• The Critical Thinking Process
• Lightweight tools and resources to bring critical thinking to your everyday job
• Human influential factors on decision-making process and how to avoid them

• Understand the fundamentals of critical thinking and why it matters
• Identify, analyze, and evaluate different perspectives about a problem and solutions
• Recognize unstated assumptions, cognitive biases and heuristics as well as tactics to overcome them
• Better define the causes of problems before they occur and learn to leverage creativity in assisting with problem-solving
• Apply systematic reflective practice to examine and update your assumptions continually.
• Apply a range of methods for bringing critical thinking to your problem-solving activities

The critical thinking course is for any member or leader in Defence, Industry and Government groups. World Economic Forum identified complex problem solving and critical thinking as the top 2 skills needed for the future of work and vital for success. The content in this course can be applied to a range of problem-solving situations, from team management and public services decisions to the defence and industry sectors.

• UNSW Canberra certificate of completion/attendance
• Masters credit: UNSW Canberra allows students who have successfully completed a minimum of 12 days of approved professional education courses to use those courses as credit in eligible postgraduate programs. 

Prerequisite: There is no prerequisite for this course

For further information on our Problem Solving Essentials course listings, please click here.

Ebrahim, a Research Associate at the UNSW Canberra, brings a blend of theoretical and practical expertise to his work in complex systems modeling. His research into resilience and sustainability of such systems employs a diverse range of methodologies including causal inference, Bayesian methods, and system dynamics. Beyond his research, Ebrahim applies his knowledge to nurture the development of crucial thinking techniques and mental modeling skills in professionals. His expertise in utilizing models to solve intricate problems lays a solid foundation for this endeavor. Key principles guiding his research, such as causality, uncertainty, and dynamism, mirror the core tenets of critical thinking. Ebrahim’s work illuminates how the tools and methods of complex systems modeling can be leveraged to enrich and deepen understanding, empowering professionals to navigate and shape their fields with greater acuity."

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

UNSW Canberra City Campus, 37 Constitution Avenue, Reid, Australia