Competency Focus: Critical Thinking

How Critical Thinking Influences my Leadership Success
Critical Thinking has been a major catalyst into my development as a leader who comes to conclusions based off of available resources and data. Throughout the course of my time at ASU, I have learned how to critically analyze data and resources for accuracy and clear reporting. Outside of using critical thinking to cut through sensationalism or false reporting, “Leaders skilled in critical thinking are better equipped to solve problems. They also make informed decisions and communicate their ideas effectively” (Lafair, 2023). 

Why is it Important for Professors to teach Critical Thinking Skills?
It is important for professors to teach critical thinking skills to students because of the sheer volume of information available in our digital era. Critical thinking is a skillset that is incredibly important to teach the next generation because of the amount of false information, generative material, and ulterior motives behind messaging in today’s world. By teaching critical thinking skills, professors can equip students with the necessary skills to second-guess sources and materials, and to come to their own conclusions about situations and events outside of what one specific media source chooses to push. 

Personal Growth & Development at Arizona State University
I have learned to think critically about where I get information about current events, how to second-guess material seen online, and how to use A.I. effectively and protect myself against false information or misrepresentation. This has been especially helpful as I navigate moving states after college, as I research the area that I am moving to without fear of being misrepresented. This has been a lifesaver and such a relief as I know what to look for and what to avoid when accessing information and sources on things that matter. 

Personal Artifact: Correlating Data Across Multiple Hypotheses
One of the most interesting, and academically challenging aspects of my communication major was the development of proving hypotheses and questions using data that I compiled and aggregated to ethically illicit conclusions. During the course of my COM 408 capstone project class, I learned how to critically analyze data against rhetorical questions, and learned how to mirror raw data that was collected into mathematical models. Using these models, I determined whether or not hypotheses were supported or not based on the data that was found. This changed the way I viewed other pieces of academic writing, especially since understanding how these equations support or not support certain questions that were asked during a study. The personal artifact that I am including is a study of relational satisfaction based on conflict styles, and the development of correlation data to support or disprove those claims. 

Reference 

Lafair, S. (2023). Mastering Critical Thinking: A Guide for Leaders. Creative Energy Options. https://ceoptions.com/2023/07/mastering-critical-thinking-a-guide-for-leaders/