Re: Re. Education Philosophy

[TQNELSON@aol.com]

In a message dated 11/12/1999 8:33:03 AM Pacific Standard Time, Sinte@aol.com 
writes:

<< 
 Would someone please provide an operational definition of critical thinking. 
 
 I understand systems thinking but I too have seen an increase in the usage 
of 
 the term "critical thinking". 
  >>

First, I would recommend AA review of the following sites (and the sites 
recommended by some of those) to gain an understanding of Critical Thinking:

Critical Thinking

http://www.kcmetro.cc.mo.us/longview/ctac/index.htm 

http://members.xoom.com/cooperate/!critthi.htm 

http://www.kcmetro.cc.mo.us/longview/ctac/corenotes.htm...

http://www.criticalthinking.org 

http://search.aol.com/cat.adp?id=27105

Next, if we begin with the SoPK, or even with Point 1 of the 14 Points we can 
begin to see the problem with the all encompassing claims of Critical 
Thinking. Nowhere will
we find a reference to the need for "synthesis" as opposed to "analysis," to 
the need to anchor all "problem" recognition, formulation and "corrective" 
action in terms of relationships/contribution(s) to attainment of the system 
aim (ref my earlier message on the SoPK and relationships within the SoPK 
components).
It is not that "Critical Thinking," OF itself, is wrong, just that it, BY 
itself, is wrong, a classical example of tampering, of having a set of valid 
tools but no idea of how they are to be used or for what purpose. This is 
made very clear at all of the above listed (and related) sites.
Once anchored in the SoPK, systems based approach, then Critical Thinking, 
ca, indeed, make a positive contribution to the attainment of the system aim 
as stated by WED, "It must always relate directly to how life is better for 
everyone" (TNE, p. 52).

Hope that helps.

Del Nelson
American River College

When "We, the People..." are replaced
by dollars, profits, and greed,
It is time to start over
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