SPRINT 11
Critical Reflection
Someone with critical thinking skills is able to do the following :
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understand the logical connections between ideas
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identify, construct and evaluate arguments
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detect inconsistencies and common mistakes in reasoning
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solve problems systematically
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identify the relevance and importance of ideas
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reflect on the justification of one's own beliefs and values
First off, we might suggest that you begin by seeking answers to the following questions when you critically assess a piece of literature:
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What broad topic and specific focus are being addressed in this literature?
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What is the overall point of view expressed on this specific topic?
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Is the structure of the argument logical - and what are the assumptions that are made in the argument?
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What is the quality of evidence used in support of this argument - both in terms of the number of different pieces of evidence but also in terms of the ‘believability’ of each source?
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How does the view expressed in this literature relate to other pieces of literature on the same topic?
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How does the view expressed here differ from or endorse other views expressed on the same topic?
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On the balance of evidence before you, what are the strengths and weaknesses of the argument?