Critical Thinking About Decisions

Determining the Problem

Gathering Information

Determining Options

Weighing Evidence

Choosing Among Options

Taking Action

Reviewing Decision and Consequences

Determining the Problem

Let’s work though this again with something specific in mind Let’s work though this again with something specific in mind. You are taking a Student Success Class. So let’s start there.

Critical Thinking About Decisions

Determining the Problem You want to make an A in this class. We don’t usually think of grades as a DECISION. But, whether you do it consciously or not, you do decide.

Gathering Information So if you decided you really want an A, what specifically are you going to have to do in order the make the A? Where do you gather the information? Begin your list. Exactly what must you do to make an A?

You have 5 minutes. Use whatever or whoever you need. Your job is to Make a list of what you must do in this class to make an A. You will probably want to post a combined list on the board.

Determining Options What ARE your options? You know what is required for an A. You have the list. What ARE your options?

Weighing Evidence Study your options: Can you come to class everyday? Can you take notes? Can you do all homework on time? Go through each option and see if you can really do each one or want to do each one.

Choosing Among Options It’s time to choose which ones you are willing and able to do.

Taking Action Keep your list handy. Make sure you have a plan, so you can do what you decided.

Reviewing Decision and Consequences Did you decide that you really didn’t want to do any of the things on the list? Did you decide to try to do everything on the list? Did you decide that there were just some of the things you were willing to do? What are the consequences of your decision? You may not know until later in the semester. THEN--

Determining the Problem You may need to start the process all over. After you leave class, study your list again. Decide what grade you want in this course.