Imagine a world where nothing changes, where there are no exciting inventions, where the Xbox 360 does not exist and mobile phones are unheard of. Sounds scary, but this is how our world would be without critical thinking. Critical thinking is the driving force behind advances in technology, business and social interaction.
Critical thinking is not simply the ability to remember facts, figures and formulas; it is about knowing how to use the information to create ideas that are new, exciting and different. Future generations need critical thinking skills to ensure that science and technology continue to evolve and push boundaries. After all, some of the greatest critical thinkers in history were also some of the greatest inventors and scientists.
The world that young people live in today is very different to that of previous generations. Employers no longer want workers who are robots; they want employees who can add value to the business. Today having a degree is no longer sufficient; successful candidates need to display initiative, flexibility and creativity. Problem solving skills require employees to be productive in their thinking and take responsibility for their output. Those who can think critically and initiate change become business leaders and entrepreneurs, those who can’t become part of the chasing pack.
The Critical Mind Skills series aims to provide everybody with the key thinking skills required for a lifetime of learning and development. The series introduces the audience to the importance of critical thinking, both in everyday life and in the workplace, before leading them through a journey that develops their critical thinking skills.
The series uses an interesting array of slides, images and 3D animation to provide the viewers with a visual montage of critical thinking. This visual montage along with the friendly and informal presentation style and different narrative techniques combine to create an attractive and exciting introduction to critical thinking; thus encouraging the next generation of business leaders and scientists to be critical thinkers, to question, inquire and reason.
Critical thinking is a skill that can be learnt and you are never too young, or too old, to start. It is about looking beyond information to the point where you can see new opportunities, alternatives and prospects. It is the ability to view the world differently and to seek new answers to old problems.
