Critical Thinking, a vital skill in today’s ever-changing work environment

Today one of the most important criteria for success in a career is the ability to think independently while being logical at the same time. This is called Critical Thinking. To remain effective in a fast-changing work landscape it is important to have flexible intellectual skills and the ability to analyse information in order to deal with changes quickly and effectively. This is especially true for those in the construction industry who are constantly thinking on their feet about the task at hand. Critical thinking is the concept of ‘thinking things through’ in order to avoid mistakes. Critical thinking means gathering all of the facts necessary to investigate a scenario, considering solutions to a problem and getting feedback from others. All of these steps lead to better solutions and fewer mistakes.

Identifying a critical thinker

Problem-solving and critical thinking are not the same. Problem-solving is a set of techniques used specifically to find effective solutions to a problem, while critical thinking is a lifelong practice used to improve one’s thinking process. Critical thinkers consider all options before they act. If time is an important factor, they consider the fastest method of achieving a goal. They may even discover a shortcut. Critical thinkers are masters of efficiency and "work smarter, not harder."

Is critical thinking inherent or learnt?

Individuals vary widely in their level of thinking ability, or 'cognitive function'. Cognitive function is inherited from our parents, similar to how we inherit physical characteristics, however scientists have discovered that cognitive function is influenced by many genes and not just a single pair (Age UK, 2022).

Having said that, critical thinking can be learnt, but it ideally should be taught from a young age in order to master the proper information and skills, which will become effective over time. Unfortunately, most individuals never learn critical thinking as they are not exposed to these training methods while at school.

How training can encourage critical thinking

The base of critical thinking skills is to be able to question assumptions, reason through logic, and diversify thinking. During the learning process, these skills are often achieved by allowing students to ask questions, encouraging decision-making, encouraging working in groups, incorporating different points of view, connecting different ideas, inspiring creativity and brainstorming.

Benefits of having critical thinkers on staff

Embracing Collaboration - A critical thinker understands how to evaluate instructions. The ability to look at information from numerous sides stimulates thought processes which cause staff to question, confirm, and maybe even adapt their methods. On a construction site, this is crucial because each worker is accountable for making sure that their knowledge of the task at hand is correct.

Evaluating the Work - Critical thinkers are constantly thinking about a final product, even after it has been completed and this is essential to sustaining high standards for the company. Without critical thinkers, a construction company will be stuck in mediocrity. Staff may feel biased about a project because they helped build it, but with critical thinking, the project can be examined objectively.

Innovating - Thinking on your feet is an important skill, and a critical thinker is aware of issues and flaws and thinks about creative methods to address them which helps to drive innovation on the job.

Resolving Disagreements - Without critical thinking, workers tend to get stuck in their ways, unwilling to try someone else’s idea or approach, which may cause discomfort and disagreements. Critical thinking encourages empathy among workers.

Every individual has biases. However, thinking critically and recognising biases are essential to have a successful career. Detailed and strategic planning should occur as a result of critical thinking, collaboration and innovation.

Heidi Kilian

Head: Training Academy

Reference:

Age UK. 2022. Genes and thinking skills [online].

Available from: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/mind-body/staying-sharp/thinking-skills-change-with-age/genes-and-thinking-skills/. [Accessed 11 October 2022].