Obstacles to Critical Thinking Unmet survival needs Prejudice, bias and oppression Unreflective acceptance of societal and cultural attitudes and beliefs Stereotypes Blind obedience and deference to authority Habit Loaded language Limited access to information (uncertainty) One-sided thinking Psychological blocks (anxiety, depression, trauma, consumerism, arrogance, etc.) Cognitive heuristics Relativism

Key Critical Thinking Skills Analysis Examining data and weighing evidence Critical reading Observation and description Self-reflection Expression Assessing relevance

4 Tools of Critical Thinking Surveillance Tools Analytical Tools Synthesis (Synthesizing Tools) Problem-Solving Tools

Frame of Reference involves… Experience Prior knowledge Assumptions and background beliefs Values

Frame of Reference affects… Considerations of relevance Methodology Evidence utilized Interpretation Receptiveness to alternatives

Key Dimensions of Diversity Frames of reference Power relations Language and Culture Values Religion Race and Ethnicity Social Class Gender Age Orientation Ability