DQ 1 N DQ 2

One term that has been revisited in each and every college course is “critical thinking”. It is of utmost importance, not only in college, but also as we reach forward to realize our professional goals. In the article 6 Critical Thinking Skills You Need to Master Now, the author lists skills that all students should acquire in order to be considered “critical thinkers”. These skills, or elements, include interpretation, analysis, evaluation, explanation, and self –regulation. Interpretation, or the ability to understand the information being presented and communicating the meaning of that information to others is key in learning (Tilus, 2012). Analysis and evaluation enable us to connect pieces of information together while deciding if the facts presented are credible and reliable or biased opinion (Tilus, 2012). Explanation requires us to take the information we have learned, and not only relay that information but also add clarity and perspective. Self- regulation is something we don’t always consider when critical thinking is involved, but it is arguably most important of all; it ensures we reach out for help when we may not know the correct answer or proper protocol. Pretending to know more than we do can have foolish, empty results.