Introduction
In the time of rapid technology developments and problem-solving situations that require higher level thinking, critical and creative thought has become necessary in the workplace. These ways of thinking are not only useful but necessary to adapt to the transformation that is taking place in professional scenes. This report focuses on the core of critical and creative thinking, understanding different models and textural elements and how they are used in organizations.
The models of cognitive and creative thinking
Calvin Taylor’s Model presupposes productive thinking and decision-making. It is a holistic model that allows combining different aspects of thinking, from creative brainstorming to analytical evaluation (Bellis, 2019).
One of the most prominent models of education that hierarchically dimensions cognitive capacities from simple fact recall to higher-level skills such as evaluation and creation is Bloom’s Taxonomy. This model has played a crucial role in forming the approaches of education for training critical thinking skills (Ruhl, 2023).
As part of Hurson’s Productive Thinking Model, there is a step-by-step direction that involves creative problem-solving. It begins with problem identification and then flows through solution generation to action implementation, illustrating the dynamic character of creative problem-solving (Hurson, 2018).
Critical and Creative Thinking Traits
Critical and creative thinkers are analytical, breaking down problems into their constituent parts. They are malleable, adjusting their minds to fresh information and circumstances. Their curiosity makes them pursue knowledge and understanding unremittingly. Reflectiveness enables them to assess their reasoning, and in terms of being open-minded, they take a look at different approaches before making conclusions (Kelly, 2011).
Features of Critical Thinking Skills:
Such skills include analysis (the process of disintegration), synthesis (the combination of different ideas), and evaluation (assessing the veracity of facts). These abilities help determine solutions that are innovative and relevant (Rupp, 2022).
Learning Environments and Systems:
Formal learning contexts include organized training programs and workshops, which offer a structured approach to skill acquisition. On the other hand, informal learning environments such as mentorship and experiential learning provide more flexible and individualized growth options.
Best Practices in Instruction:
The focus on best practices to encourage a culture of curiosity and respect where ideas can be freely traded and challenged. Utilizing real-life situations promotes the application of critical thinking in practice, and cultivating a learning and development culture is essential.
Application in the Workplace:
In the workplace, critical thinking appears in actions such as delicate problem-solving for project management or informed decision-making from data analysis. These skills are essential in addressing the issues and opportunities of contemporary business landscapes.
Safe and Creative Work Environment:
A positive work environment with a high level of safety and creativity is reflected in free communication, encouragement of questioning, and risk-taking. Such an environment should also include support systems for learning and growth.
Conclusion
The union of critical and creative thinking abilities should not be limited to an abstract idea but a substantive need in the contemporary dynamic and challenging arena. The models discussed offer structures for comprehending and developing these competencies, while the descriptors and applications show their significance. With organizations and individual beings navigating a world of unending change, developing these skills becomes essential for achieving success and innovation. The emphasis in this report is placed on critical and creative thinking as a solid foundation of modern professional competence.
References
Bellis, M. (2019, March 1). Calvin Taylor’s model of critical and creative thinking. ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/critical-and-creative-thinking-skills-1991449
Hurson, T. (2018). Think better: An innovator’s guide to productive thinking. McGraw-Hill.
Kelly, J. (2011). Thinking Skills. The Peak Performance Center. https://thepeakperformancecenter.com/educational-learning/thinking/
Ruhl, C. (2023, October 24). Bloom’s Taxonomy of Learning: Domain Levels explained. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/blooms-taxonomy.html
Rupp, E. E. (2022, November 3). 9 characteristics of critical thinking. ABLE blog: thoughts, learnings and experiences. https://able.ac/blog/characteristics-of-critical-thinking/