Judy Field

In my opinion, the actual knowledge gained from a formal education is only one half of the equation. frankly, I have forgotten much of the detailed knowledge I had when I was in college. What remains with me,and in fact, has become deeper and broader, is the invaluable skill known as "critical thinking." It is the ability to read or listen to a wide range of disorganized information pertaining to an issue, and through a process of filtering and elimination, synthesize that data into an organized, condensed "nugget" that brings focus and clarity to an issue in such a way that one can more easily "connect the dots." Without critical thinking, one can easily be manipulated by others, or take mental shortcuts, which can lead to stereotyping of groups of people. Without critical thinking, one is destined to always think "inside the box," or always assume that the way things have always been is the way they ought to be. Critical thinking is part of good leadership and without that, you cannot be a strong advocate for your client, no matter what profession you are in. - Wed Dec 23 2009, 00:01