linkedin learning critical thinking

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LinkedIn Learning: Critical Thinking

Stage: Improving current program

Audience: Students & Supervisors

ASU currently provides access to LinkedIn Learning for all working learners and professional staff. Below are recommended trainings through LinkedIn Learning aimed at improving Critical Thinking skills.

How to use this resource

• Check to see if your institution offers a subscription to LinkedIn Learning. As a reminder, this is a subscription based service.
• Have your working learner(s) complete this critical thinking course either on their own or in a team setting.
• Take time to discuss and reflect on what your working learner(s) learned from the critical thinking course.
• Set goals for improvement moving forward centered on critical thinking skills and based on what they learned.
• Check-in on the goals set and add supplementary LinkedIn Learning courses as you see fit.

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Created: Mar 4, 2024

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How to think effectively: Six stages of critical thinking

Credit: Elder / Paul

• Researchers propose six levels of critical thinkers: Unreflective thinkers, Challenged thinkers, Beginning thinkers, Practicing thinkers, Advanced thinkers, and Master thinkers.
• The framework comes from educational psychologists Linda Elder and Richard Paul.
• Teaching critical thinking skills is a crucial challenge in our times.

The coronavirus has not only decimated our populations, its spread has also attacked the very nature of truth and stoked inherent tensions between many different groups of people, both at local and international levels. Spawning widespread conspiracy theories and obfuscation by governments, the virus has also been a vivid demonstration of the need for teaching critical thinking skills necessary to survive in the 21st century. The stage theory of critical thinking development, devised by psychologists Linda Elder and Richard Paul , can help us gauge the sophistication of our current mental approaches and provides a roadmap to the thinking of others.

The researchers identified six predictable levels of critical thinkers, from ones lower in depth and effort to the advanced mind-masters, who are always steps ahead.

As the scientists write , moving up on this pyramid of thinking “is dependent upon a necessary level of commitment on the part of an individual to develop as a critical thinker.” Using your mind more effectively is not automatic and “is unlikely to take place “subconsciously.” In other words – you have to put in the work and keep doing it, or you’ll lose the faculty.

Here’s how the stages of intellectual development break down:

Unreflective thinker

These are people who don’t reflect about thinking and the effect it has on their lives. As such, they form opinions and make decisions based on prejudices and misconceptions while their thinking doesn’t improve.

Unreflective thinkers lack crucial skills that would allow them to parse their thought processes. They also do not apply standards like accuracy, relevance, precision, and logic in a consistent fashion.

How many such people are out there? You probably can guess based on social media comments. As Elder and Paul write , “it is perfectly possible for students to graduate from high school, or even college, and still be largely unreflective thinkers.”

Challenged thinker

This next level up thinker has awareness of the importance of thinking on their existence and knows that deficiencies in thinking can bring about major issues. As the psychologists explain, to solve a problem, you must first admit you have one.

People at this intellectual stage begin to understand that “high quality thinking requires deliberate reflective thinking about thinking”, and can acknowledge that their own mental processes might have many flaws. They might not be able to identify all the flaws, however.

A challenged thinker may have a sense that solid thinking involves navigating assumptions, inferences, and points of view, but only on an initial level. They may also be able to spot some instances of their own self-deception. The true difficulty for thinkers of this category is in not “believing that their thinking is better than it actually is, making it more difficult to recognize the problems inherent in poor thinking,” explain the researchers.

Thinkers at this level can go beyond the nascent intellectual humility and actively look to take control of their thinking across areas of their lives. They know that their own thinking can have blind spots and other problems and take steps to address those, but in a limited capacity.

Beginning thinker

Beginning thinkers place more value in reason, becoming self-aware in their thoughts. They may also be able to start looking at the concepts and biases underlying their ideas. Additionally, such thinkers develop higher internal standards of clarity, accuracy and logic, realizing that their ego plays a key role in their decisions.

Another big aspect that differentiates this stronger thinker – some ability to take criticism of their mental approach, even though they still have work to do and might lack clear enough solutions to the issues they spot.

Practicing thinker

This more experienced kind of thinker not only appreciates their own deficiencies, but has skills to deal with them. A thinker of this level will practice better thinking habits and will analyze their mental processes with regularity.

While they might be able to express their mind’s strengths and weaknesses, as a negative, practicing thinkers might still not have a systematic way of gaining insight into their thoughts and can fall prey to egocentric and self-deceptive reasoning.

How do you get to this stage? An important trait to gain, say the psychologists, is “intellectual perseverance.” This quality can provide “the impetus for developing a realistic plan for systematic practice (with a view to taking greater command of one’s thinking).”

“We must teach in such a way that students come to understand the power in knowing that whenever humans reason, they have no choice but to use certain predictable structures of thought: that thinking is inevitably driven by the questions, that we seek answers to questions for some purpose, that to answer questions, we need information, that to use information we must interpret it (i.e., by making inferences), and that our inferences, in turn, are based on assumptions, and have implications, all of which involves ideas or concepts within some point of view,” explain Elder and Paul.

One doesn’t typically get to this stage until college and beyond, estimate the scientists. This higher-level thinker would have strong habits that would allow them to analyze their thinking with insight about different areas of life. They would be fair-minded and able to spot the prejudicial aspects in the points of view of others and their own understanding.

While they’d have a good handle on the role of their ego in the idea flow, such thinkers might still not be able to grasp all the influences that affect their mentality.

Advanced thinker

The advanced thinker is at ease with self-critique and does so systematically, looking to improve. Among key traits required for this level are “intellectual insight” to develop new thought habits, “ intellectual integrity” to “recognize areas of inconsistency and contradiction in one’s life,” intellectual empathy ” to put oneself in the place of others in order to genuinely understand them, and the “ intellectual courage” to confront ideas and beliefs they don’t necessarily believe in and have negative emotions towards.

Master thinker

This is the super-thinker, the one who is totally in control of how they process information and make decisions. Such people constantly seek to improve their thought skills, and through experience “regularly raise their thinking to the level of conscious realization.”

A master thinker achieves great insights into deep mental levels, strongly committed to being fair and gaining control over their own egocentrism.

Such a high-level thinker also exhibits superior practical knowledge and insight, always re-examining their assumptions for weaknesses, logic, and biases.

And, of course, a master thinker wouldn’t get upset with being intellectually confronted and spends a considerable amount of time analyzing their own responses.

“Why is this so important? Precisely because the human mind, left to its own, pursues that which is immediately easy, that which is comfortable, and that which serves its selfish interests. At the same time, it naturally resists that which is difficult to understand, that which involves complexity, that which requires entering the thinking and predicaments of others,” write the researchers.

So how do you become a master thinker? The psychologists think most students will never get there. But a lifetime of practicing the best intellectual traits can get you to that point when “people of good sense seek out master thinkers, for they recognize and value the ability of master thinkers to think through complex issues with judgment and insight.”

The significance of critical thinking in our daily lives, especially in these confusing times, so rife with quick and often-misleading information, cannot be overstated. The decisions we make today can truly be life and death.

Critical Thinking Skills

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

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13 Easy Steps To Improve Your Critical Thinking Skills

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With the sheer volume of information that we’re bombarded with on a daily basis – and with the pervasiveness of fake news and social media bubbles – the ability to look at evidence, evaluate the trustworthiness of a source, and think critically is becoming more important than ever. This is why, for me, critical thinking is one of the most vital skills to cultivate for future success.

Critical thinking isn’t about being constantly negative or critical of everything. It’s about objectivity and having an open, inquisitive mind. To think critically is to analyze issues based on hard evidence (as opposed to personal opinions, biases, etc.) in order to build a thorough understanding of what’s really going on. And from this place of thorough understanding, you can make better decisions and solve problems more effectively.

To put it another way, critical thinking means arriving at your own carefully considered conclusions instead of taking information at face value. Here are 13 ways you can cultivate this precious skill:

1. Always vet new information with a cautious eye. Whether it’s an article someone has shared online or data that’s related to your job, always vet the information you're presented with. Good questions to ask here include, "Is this information complete and up to date?” “What evidence is being presented to support the argument?” and “Whose voice is missing here?”

2. Look at where the information has come from. Is the source trustworthy? What is their motivation for presenting this information? For example, are they trying to sell you something or get you to take a certain action (like vote for them)?

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3. Consider more than one point of view. Everyone has their own opinions and motivations – even highly intelligent people making reasonable-sounding arguments have personal opinions and biases that shape their thinking. So, when someone presents you with information, consider whether there are other sides to the story.

4. Practice active listening. Listen carefully to what others are telling you, and try to build a clear picture of their perspective. Empathy is a really useful skill here since putting yourself in another person's shoes can help you understand where they're coming from and what they might want. Try to listen without judgment – remember, critical thinking is about keeping an open mind.

5. Gather additional information where needed. Whenever you identify gaps in the information or data, do your own research to fill those gaps. The next few steps will help you do this objectively…

6. Ask lots of open-ended questions. Curiosity is a key trait of critical thinkers, so channel your inner child and ask lots of "who," "what," and "why" questions.

7. Find your own reputable sources of information, such as established news sites, nonprofit organizations, and education institutes. Try to avoid anonymous sources or sources with an ax to grind or a product to sell. Also, be sure to check when the information was published. An older source may be unintentionally offering up wrong information just because events have moved on since it was published; corroborate the info with a more recent source.

8. Try not to get your news from social media. And if you do see something on social media that grabs your interest, check the accuracy of the story (via reputable sources of information, as above) before you share it.

9. Learn to spot fake news. It's not always easy to spot false or misleading content, but a good rule of thumb is to look at the language, emotion, and tone of the piece. Is it using emotionally charged language, for instance, and trying to get you to feel a certain way? Also, look at the sources of facts, figures, images, and quotes. A legit news story will clearly state its sources.

10. Learn to spot biased information. Like fake news, biased information may seek to appeal more to your emotions than logic and/or present a limited view of the topic. So ask yourself, “Is there more to this topic than what’s being presented here?” Do your own reading around the topic to establish the full picture.

11. Question your own biases, too. Everyone has biases, and there’s no point pretending otherwise. The trick is to think objectively about your likes and dislikes, preferences, and beliefs, and consider how these might affect your thinking.

12. Form your own opinions. Remember, critical thinking is about thinking independently. So once you’ve assessed all the information, form your own conclusions about it.

13. Continue to work on your critical thinking skills. I recommend looking at online learning platforms such as Udemy and Coursera for courses on general critical thinking skills, as well as courses on specific subjects like cognitive biases.

Read more about critical thinking and other essential skills in my new book, Future Skills: The 20 Skills & Competencies Everyone Needs To Succeed In A Digital World . Written for anyone who wants to surf the wave of digital transformation – rather than be drowned by it – the book explores why these vital future skills matter and how to develop them.

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How To Think Clearly With The Top 11 Best Online Critical Thinking Courses & Classes [Free Guide]

Looking for a game-changer in the way you think about the world around you? Well, you’re exactly where you need to be to get started!

In this guide, I cover some of the best online critical thinking courses for developing your skills. With courses ranging from under an hour in length to 16-week programs, there’s something for everyone.  

Also, all of these online courses will equip you with the tools and techniques you need to become a great critical thinker, so let’s get into them!

Table of Contents

Top 11 Best Online Critical Thinking Courses & Classes 2024

1.  how to think differently & critically (skillshare).

In 7 easy steps, this online critical thinking course, for beginners and advanced thinkers alike, will help you see the world differently by examining different perspectives and using logic and critical reasoning to expand your mind. 

Troye Bates is your instructor for this course online class, who writes a popular online blog on brain-training, and began teaching several years ago, sparked by his passion for enhancing our mental capabilities.

Through the 7-step process, students learn how to become a mental master of critical thinking, logic, and reasoning, strategy, abundance, big-picture thinking, reflecting before they act, and tons more!

Global online learning platform Skillshare is where you will find this online course.   There are over 29,000 other courses available on the platform and you even get a 1-month free trial!   Overall, this is one of the best critical thinking classes you can find online!

• 10 video lessons
• 1 hour and 26 minutes of content
• 271 students have taken the course
• Suited to all levels

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2.  Critical Thinking: How to Find Out What Really Works (Skillshare)

Keen to level-up your critical thinking skills at work, school, or in day-to-day life? Critical thinking is an essential life skill, and this online course teaches you key strategies to make better life decisions.  

Andre Klapper , Ph.D., is your teacher, who is a researcher, psychologist, and neuroscientist with decades of experience in working with the mind and understanding cognitive processes. This is also 1 of 9 courses Andre currently has on Skillshare.

Spread across 14 lessons over 1-hour, students will learn the reasoning fallacy, everyday examples, how to eliminate alternative explanations, how to rule out coincidences, how to draw conclusions efficiently, the scientific thinking blueprint, and tons more!

Currently, you can find this online course hosted on the global online learning platform, Skillshare. There are over 29,000 other courses available on the platform, plus you get a 1-month free trial as a new user! Overall, this is a great introductory class to enroll in.

• 14 video lessons
• 1 hour and 11 minutes
• 211 students have taken the course
• Suited to beginners

3.  Welcome to critical thinking (LinkedIn Learning)

Learn how to make more thoughtful and effective decisions in every area of your life with this online critical-thinking course designed to challenge and expand your current level of thinking.   Clocking in at an hour, this introductory critical thinking course is just the right length to get some learning in on your commute or while out for a run!

Leading this online course is   Mike Figliuolo , the Managing Director of Thought LEADERS LLC, and an author at LinkedIn Learning. Mike is also a nationally renowned speaker, blogger, author, and teacher.

Throughout the course’s one-hour running time, students explore a series of techniques to assist with developing critical thinking skills by sharing how to redefine problems and use specific strategies such as the ‘5 Whys’, the ‘7 So Whats’, and the 80/20 rule.

You can find this online critical thinking course hosted on LinkedIn Learning, offering over 150,000 courses on a range of topics, all available to students worldwide! The expert teaching and quality content make this a not-to-miss online course!

• Approx. 1 hour of content
• Downloadable on Apple and GooglePlay for offline learning
• 312,745 people have viewed the course

Visit LinkedIn.con

4.  Critical Thinking In The Workplace (Skillshare)

Next up on my list is a critical-thinking course designed specifically for the workplace. Whether you’re looking to enhance your own skills, or you’re a manager or CEO aiming to increase staff productivity,   this short 50-minute course is highly recommended.

Katie Hall is your instructor, a representative of Talent Zoom, which is a company that helps businesses identify their unique workplace talents. Katie also has 3 courses on Skillshare and is dedicated to helping people succeed in their professional lives.

Some of the many topics covered in this online critical thinking course include the foundations of critical thinking, as well as understanding left, right, whole-brain thinking, consistency of ideas, building an explanation, active listening, and tons more!

For those interested, this online course is hosted on the global online learning platform, Skillshare. There are over 29,000 other courses available on the platform, plus a 1-month free trial! Overall, this is one of the best online critical thinking classes out there!

• 50 minutes of content
• 429 students have taken the course
• 2 downloadable resources

5.  Critical Thinking for Better Judgment and Decision-Making (Skillshare)

Did you know that having solid critical-thinking skills leads to better decision-making and a higher quality of life as a result? This online course empowers you to make the right decisions for your life by teaching you objective and rational analysis techniques to apply to any situation you might find yourself in.  

Taught by Becki Saltzman , this class is expertly led in short-format video lectures. Becki is an author, speaker, and founder of the Applied Curiosity Lab. She is focused on teaching skills to companies to improve their operations, and how their teams innovate, tackle challenges, and respond to change.

Each module of this critical thinking course covers topics such as the foundational aspect of critical thinking, how to minimize bad judgment, improving vision quality, and creating a culture of curiosity.  

Hosted on LinkedIn Learning, you can access this course and then choose from more than 150,000 others taught by industry experts once you’ve completed it! Definitely a recommended short class that you can access from anywhere.

• Approx. 55 minutes of content
• 78,641 people have viewed the course
• Suited to advanced level

6.  Master Cognitive Biases and Improve Your Critical Thinking (Udemy)

My next standout pick is an online critical-thinking course to fast-track your mental upgrade. Master your understanding of cognitive biases and learn the most effective strategies to improve the quality of your thinking in just under 2.5 hours!

Kevin DeLaplante Ph.D. is your course instructor, who is a philosopher and the founder of the Critical Thinker Academy. Kevin has taught more than 62,000 students in his 4 online courses on Udemy and works with groups, universities, and in 1-1 coaching for improving critical thinking.

In over 50 von-demand video lectures, students are guided through an explanation of cognitive bias is and how it relates to critical thinking. Lessons include confirmation bias, pattern-seeking, hindsight bias, and the anchoring effect, ending with some helpful strategies for debasing ideas.

Udemy is where you can access this critical thinking course, a great online course platform that offers its students over 150,000 on-demand online courses from beginner to advanced level!

• 50 video lectures
• 2 hours and 26 minutes of content
• Lifetime access
• Certificate of Completion
• 4.4/5 from 4,812 ratings
• 13,803 students have taken the course

Visit Udemy.com

7.  Teaching Critical Thinking through Art with the National Gallery of Art (edX)

Are you an artist or an art enthusiast? Next up is a specialist online course examining critical thinking through an artistic lens.   You’ll learn how to strengthen your thinking and facilitate meaningful conversations by applying artistic critical-thinking techniques.

As for your instructor, this online critical thinking course is offered by The Smithsonian Institute with Julie Carmean , the Museum Educator and Coordinator of Professional Development at The National Gallery of Art in Washington, United States, as your leading you.

Through 4 content units, which will take up to 20 hours to complete via self-paced learning, students investigate thinking routines, observing and describing tactics, reasoning with evidence, and questioning and investigating, receiving downloadable artful thinking lesson plans as a bonus!

You can find this online critical thinking course can be found on the nonprofit education platform edX, founded by Harvard and MIT, and offering courses form the leading worldwide universities to more than 20 million students! This particular course is one of the best online critical thinking classes I’ve found.

• 18,073 students have enrolled
• Takes 16 weeks to complete
• 3-4 hours a week of work
• Great for all levels

Visit edX.org

8.  Master your Decision-Making, and Critical Thinking Skills (Udemy)

Are you looking for a comprehensive online course to improve your decision-making? You can work towards mastering good decision-making in this 4-hour online critical-thinking course that comes highly recommended with a 4.4/5 rating!  

Your course instructor is Sivakami S , an experienced business leader and research/doctoral scholar who has taught over 20,000 students in his 12 online courses on Udemy. With nearly 2 decades of experience, she has led many initiatives in large corporations such as Verizon and Microsoft.

Spanning 45 video lectures presented in just over 4 hours, students learn how humans think, judge, and decide key cognitive biases, irrationality versus rationality, de-biasing techniques, logical fallacies, and so much more.  

Head to Udemy to check this course out, a global online learning platform that offers more than 150,000 on-demand courses on a whole range of topics no matter your level! Overall, this online course is a great deep-dive into critical-thinking!.

• 45 video lectures
• 4 hours and 3 minutes of content
• 4.4/5 from 1,183 ratings
• 5,129 students have taken the course
• 15 downloadable resources

9. Philosophy and Critical Thinking (edX)

Another online critical thinking course that I’m excited to show you is a totally free, university-led offering for anyone who wants to improve their critical thinking skills. Over a period of 6 weeks, students learn how to use philosophical inquiry to improve your personal and professional decision-making.  

Two instructors share the teaching of this online course, Professor Deborah Brown and Dr. Peter Ellerton , both lecturers and Directors of the University of Queensland Critical Thinking Project who  

Students are led through critical thinking content that teaches them how to identify, analyze, and construct cogent arguments, and how to think of solutions to the central philosophical problems. There is also an option to add a verified certificate for an extra fee, for students looking for this proof of completion of the course.

edX hosts this online critical thinking course,   offering more than 20 million students incredible access to online courses at leading universities across the globe. Plus, as a nonprofit, it’s totally free! Overall, a high-quality course for anyone wanting to develop critical thinking.  

• 95,967 students have enrolled
• 6 weeks long
• 1-4 hours of work per week

10.  Critical Thinking (Udemy)

If you’re keen to study an online critical thinking course that’s both broad and detailed, this could be the one for you! In just 3 hours, you’ll have a greater grasp of logic and reasoning to apply to every area of your life.

Presented by Joss Colchester of Systems Innovation , an eLearning platform that is focused on complex systems and system change, this course is an entry into this subject. This course is led in an accessible way, making complex ideas feel easy to understand.

Joss takes students through course content covering cognition, including evolutionary psychology, as well as informal and formal logic examples and explanations, the different types of reasoning, the elements of reasoning, and argumentation rules and strategies.

One of the best online critical thinking courses around, you can find it on Udemy, which offers its students over 150,000 on-demand online courses on critical thinking and more, from beginner to advanced level!

• 21 video lectures
• 3 hours and 5 minutes of content
• 4.3/5 from 118 ratings
• 427 students have taken the course

11. Introduction to Critical Thinking (Udemy)

If you’re a critical-thinking newbie looking to get your decision-making off to a good start, this is a brilliant beginner’s course to help you process information and make thoughtful decisions.  

Teaching duo Gorden Bonne t and Carol Bloomgarden are your instructors. Golden is the author of the blog Skeptophilio, which looks at science and media through a skeptical lens. He is also a novelist and teacher of critical thinking, and various other science topics. Carol is Gorden’s wife, and she is responsible for the video production and graphic design at Skeptophilia. They both lead this course with patience and passion.

Throughout 39 on-demand video lectures, students will explore the fundamentals of critical thinking, skepticism, learn how to recognize fallacies in the media, identify questionable statistics, construct arguments, and know when scientific terms are not being used correctly.

Udemy is where you will find this critical thinking hosted, a great online course platform which offers its students over 150,000 on-demand online courses from beginner to advanced level!

Udemy was founded in 2010 and has risen to the forefront of online learning in just a decade, to become the leader in skill-based and professional online education. To learn more, also check out my other posts on NLP and CBT !

• 39 video lectures
• 1 hour and 19 minutes of content
• Course: Introduction to Critical Thinking
• 4.5/5 from 34 ratings
• 46 students have taken the course

My name is Lewis Keegan and I am the writer and editor of SkillScouter.com. I'm extremely passionate about online education and what it can do for those to better their lives. I spend most of my time blogging, hiking, and drinking coffee. I also have a Bachelor's Degree in Education and Teaching.

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LinkedIn Learning: Critical Thinking

Professional development.

8 questions

Introducing new   Paper mode

No student devices needed.   Know more

What's the recommended strategy for dealing with a complex problem that has no obvious solution?

Throw in the towel and go out for a double latte.

Break the problem down into smaller, more solvable pieces.

List out the consequences, then analyze the cause for each one.

Assign the parts of the problem to each person on you team.

Why do people tend to rush off and start solving the problem without understanding causes and consequences first?

They can avoid getting get tasked with solving additional problems.

They know that causes and consqequences get fihured out at the end.

It makes them feel like they're being responsive to stakeholders.

It allows them to reverse engineer the causes.

During the critical thinking process what's the first thing you should consider?

stakeholder goals

consequences

Causality involves digging down to uncover root causes as well as considering the _____ of potential solutions.

Looking at prior efforts on a problem can help you understand previous limitations and gain _____ that can be applied the next time around.

root causes

budget dollars

stakeholder support

institutional knowledge

Focusing questions help you _____ a problem space.

Defining a clear problem statement can help you avoid this common pitfall.

jumping to answer too quickly

not thinking of future consequences

focusing on the unimportant

generating weak hypotheses

When you change _____ you typically look at the problem from a different functional perspective.

point of view

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Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Course link: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/critical-thinking-and-problem-solving/

These are Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Linkedin Answers FINAL EXAM

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Linkedin Answers QUIZ 1

Question 1 of 4.

Elina has trouble staying focused on any topic for very long. Which step is most useful for Elina?

• Create a more rigid agenda.
• React to external stimuli as they appear.
• Prepare mentally and physically for the activity.
• Adapt to new ideas and challenges.

Question 2 of 4

Seppo holds on to certain biases that tend to cause some bad decisions and blunders in his life. How can Seppo improve?

• by actively studying what went wrong in the past
• by using more systematic reasoning
• by studying logic and analysis
• by striving for a more positive outlook

Question 3 of 4

Why is it useful for a leader to begin a discussion with questions?

• They can demonstrate your lack of knowledge.
• They can confirm your assumptions.
• They can stimulate conversation.

Question 4 of 4

Why is it important to identify the purpose of an information source?

• to understand the compensation required
• to identify biases
• to determine its appropriate use
• to understand the format

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Linkedin Answers QUIZ 2

Question 1 of 3.

In the PERT process, what must you do right before making your final plan?

• Assess feasibility and make adjustments.
• Build a timeline.
• List subtasks and their interdependencies.
• Identify the ultimate goal of the project.

Question 2 of 3

When should you use participatory decision-making?

• when additional expertise is needed
• when you have a long timeline
• when there are high-impact consequences

Question 3 of 3

Why should you introduce some structure into your problem-solving methods?

• to achieve a traceable result
• to reduce conflict and achieve better decisions
• to make everyone feel appreciated
• to increase speed and reduce ambiguity

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Linkedin Answers QUIZ 3

Question 1 of 5.

Atul wants to ensure that the current project embraces all cultural groups. Which type of criterion concerns Atul?

Question 2 of 5

Why would buzz groups generate more ideas than a brainstorming session?

• They require all participants to speak for a few minutes.
• They give specific assignments to each participant.
• They encourage quieter participants to speak up.

Question 3 of 5

You are arguing to make a change to the current methods for accomplishing a task. Which type of statement are you making?

Question 4 of 5

When limiting decision choices, what is the most important factor to consider?

• It is okay if the final choice does not meet the success criteria.
• Always use a cost-benefit analysis
• Perfection is not necessary.
• Multi-voting is preferable to single voting.

Question 5 of 5

Why should you use an iterative process in solution implementation?

• to engage stakeholders
• to enable minimal effort
• to constantly improve
• to reduce costs

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Linkedin Answers QUIZ 4

How can you avoid groupthink?

• by appointing a devil’s advocate
• by using the decisions of one small groupIncorrectOn the contrary, multiple groups can help develop alternate solutions.
• by taking first impressions as finalIncorrectDecisions should be revisited after a cooling off period.
• by letting the leader speak up and take charge

Pedro calls Maria a habitual liar and concludes that nothing she says is trustworthy. Which type of fallacy is Pedro exhibiting?

• appeal-to-ignorance

How can you best deal with situations in which you suspect cherry picking?

• by asking for complete data covering the whole picture
• by using labels for all axes
• by using an ad hominem attack
• by asking for baselines in all graphs

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Linkedin Answers FINAL EXAM

Question 1 of 12 What can you use action plans for, in addition to leading to the implementation of your solution?

• to guide decision-making
• to provide a roadmap for future projects
• to assess success and correct as needed

Question 2 of 12 What type of logical fallacy is someone using when they attack your position by omitting key parts of your argument?

• appeal to ignorance

Question 3 of 12 High-functioning groups can encounter pitfalls that derail good problem-solving. What does it mean if a group centers itself?

• It is overly skeptical of all solutions.
• It focuses on agreement rather than dissent.
• It follows the leader’s thinking.

Question 4 of 12 Why is analysis of information sources important to your critical thinking?

• You justify your position on a topic.
• You make sure your sources are trustworthy.
• You can credit the source of your information.

Question 5 of 12 Why would you use buzz groups when leading your team to find solutions?

• to provide a visual representation of the issue
• to create extra buzz around the solutions
• to ensure that everyone is comfortable participating

Question 6 of 12 You are meeting a colleague who disagrees with you about the direction your team should take on a project. What can you do to keep your biases from affecting the conversation?

• Think about how you can share your opinion without angering them.
• Consider the issues from your colleague’s perspective.
• Prepare for the conversation by anticipating their arguments.

Question 7 of 12 What is a best practice that helps you stay focused and think critically during meetings?

• Create an agenda and do not stray from it.
• Mentally prepare by removing your biases.
• Have a plan to follow up in case you miss anything.

Question 8 of 12 How can asking questions help you become a critical thinker and better leader?

• You validate your opinions.
• You make sure your team is engaged.
• You influence others.

Question 9 of 12 What type of decision-making would you use to gain additional expertise and team buy-in, but also to retain the final say?

• majority vote
• participatory

Question 10 of 12 What is a benefit of using the nominal group technique for problem-solving?

• It is a way to ensure that everyone gets involved.
• It provides insight on who voted for each solution.
• It helps answer the most important question.

Question 11 of 12 When using PERT for solving a large and complex problem, what is your last step?

• Determine feasibility.
• Isolate the critical path forward.
• Identify the time needed.
• Assess the order of events.

Question 12 of 12 You are deciding on the logistics for a meeting. What type of assessment criteria are you using when you consider the number of attendees and size of the meeting rooms?

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Top 10 Future-Proof Careers in a Shifting Economy

To thrive long-term in a high-tech and uncertain workforce, students and new graduates should aim for fields that are in high demand while also building on transferable soft skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, communications, and adaptability.

In today’s fast-changing economy, simply following the crowd or clinging to the old ways won’t cut it anymore. The days when a college degree alone could guarantee a stable career are long gone — replaced by a world where, according to the World Economic Forum, 44 percent of workers’ skills are on the verge of being outdated within the next five years.

This isn’t just some abstract prediction; it’s the reality that young adults must face head-on. McKinsey’s research drives the point home: By 2030, up to 375 million workers — 14 percent of the global workforce — might be forced to switch careers because automation and artificial intelligene (AI) are rewriting the rules.

Let’s not sugarcoat it, this is a wake-up call. We’re living in a time when those who aren’t ready to adapt, learn, and innovate will find themselves left behind. The real challenge now is finding a path that offers not just a job but a future that’s resilient enough to withstand the seismic shifts already upon us. It’s time to stop waiting for someone else to fix it and start controlling your destiny in a world where nothing is guaranteed.

To navigate these turbulent times, it’s crucial to identify and prepare for careers that not only meet today’s job market demands but can weather future disruptions. In this article, I’ll explore the top 10 careers projected to provide both stability and growth, laying a solid foundation for those who are serious about future-proofing their professional lives in an ever-changing world.

1. Nurse Practitioner

With an aging population and increasing demand for healthcare, the role of nurse practitioners has never been more critical. They are not just filling a gap; they are at the forefront of redefining healthcare in America. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 38 percent growth in this role by 2032. The need is immediate, with nearly 123,600 positions already unfilled. This is more than a career — it’s a calling. Nurse practitioners often serve as the primary healthcare providers in underserved areas, making a real difference in people’s lives. With a median salary of $124,680, this path offers both security and purpose.

2. Information Security Analyst

As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, the importance of safeguarding data cannot be overstated. Information security analysts are the gatekeepers in our digital world, standing between organizations and potential chaos. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 32 percent increase in demand for these professionals by 2032, with over 168,900 positions currently unfilled. This role offers more than just a paycheck; it provides a critical mission in protecting our increasingly digital society. The median salary of $120,360 reflects the importance and responsibility of this position.

3. Software Developer

The digital revolution isn’t just happening, it’s accelerating. Software developers are the architects of this new reality, building the tools and applications that shape our daily lives. The BLS anticipates a 25 percent growth in this field by 2032, with an existing shortfall of over 153,900 developers needed to meet the demand. A median salary of $130,160 underscores this profession’s high stakes and vast opportunities. For those with a knack for coding and a vision for the future, roles in full-stack development, mobile app development, or systems architecture are natural extensions.

4. Data Scientist

Those who can interpret and analyze information hold significant power in a data-driven world. Data scientists go beyond number crunching; they influence critical decisions across industries. The demand is clear, with a 35 percent projected growth by 2032 and a current shortfall of nearly 177,000 professionals. With a median salary of $108,020, this sector not only promises lucrative job opportunities but also serves as a conduit to pivotal roles like data analyst, machine learning engineer, and business intelligence analyst — each of which is crucial to the fabric of the contemporary economy.

5. Physician Assistant (PA)

The healthcare industry is a team effort, and Physician Assistants (PAs) are vital in delivering quality care. Working closely with doctors, PAs diagnose and treat patients, often becoming the backbone of medical teams. The BLS projects a 27 percent growth in this role by 2032, with a median salary of $130,020. This career offers stability and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives. Specialization in heart surgery, urgent care, dermatology, and other medical fields further enhances career prospects. Additionally, PAs have the flexibility to work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

6. Electrician

Electricians are more crucial than ever in an era where smart technology and renewable energy are the future. They don’t just wire buildings; they create the infrastructure that powers our homes, businesses, and cities. The demand is strong, with the BLS projecting an 8 percent growth in this field by 2032 and 70,000 positions currently unfilled. A median salary of $61,590 highlights the stability and opportunity in this trade. Roles like electrical inspector, electrical contractor, or maintenance electrician offer paths for further growth.

7. HVAC Technician

As buildings become more energy-efficient and climate control becomes increasingly important, the role of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians is expanding. This field isn’t just about fixing air conditioners; it’s about ensuring that our environments are comfortable and safe. The BLS expects 6 percent growth in this career path by 2032, with 40,000 positions needing to be filled. The median salary in 2023 was $57,300, but with specialized training, one could advance to roles such as refrigeration technician, boiler operator, or system installer.

8. Medical and Health Services Manager

Behind every successful healthcare facility is a team of administrators who ensure everything runs smoothly. Medical and Health Services Managers are the leaders who make this possible, and the BLS projects a 28 percent growth in this role by 2032, with nearly 60,000 positions currently unfilled. With a median salary of $110,680 in 2023, this career offers not just stability but also the chance to shape the future of healthcare. Related roles include hospital administrator, clinical manager, and health information manager, each critical to the health sector’s growth.

9. Wind Turbine Service Technician

As the world pivots towards sustainable energy, the need for skilled Wind Turbine Service Technicians has skyrocketed. These professionals maintain the turbines that are central to green energy. The BLS predicts a 45 percent growth in this role by 2032, with a current shortfall of around 18,000 technicians. With a median salary of $61,770, there’s also room to advance into roles like renewable energy technician, solar panel installer, or energy auditor.

10. Plumber

While technology advances, some essential roles remain constant, and plumbing is one of them. Plumbers have been the unsung heroes of our infrastructure for centuries, and their work is more relevant today than ever. As our infrastructure ages and more housing developments are built, the need for skilled plumbers is critical. The BLS projects a 2 percent growth by 2032, with about 50,000 positions currently unfilled. With a median salary of $61,550 in 2023, this career offers both security and respect. Paths like pipefitters, steamfitters, or plumbing inspectors are available for those looking to diversify.

The Power of Transferable Skills

These careers are built on specific skills, but it’s the transferable skills that truly set the best workers apart. Critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability are the tools that will see you through any career shift. Whether you’re diving into data science or mastering HVAC systems, these skills are your constant companions on the path to success.

Preparing for these careers isn’t just about earning a degree or certification but also about personal growth. Seek internships, join relevant clubs, take online courses, and network actively. The job market rewards those who take the initiative, and by developing your skills and connections early, you’ll be positioning yourself for long-term success.

Facing the Future with Lifelong Learning

In a constantly evolving world, learning shouldn’t stop at graduation. Lifelong learning is the key to staying ahead in any career. Whether pursuing advanced certifications or staying updated on industry trends, your commitment to learning will be what distinguishes you in the marketplace.

Automation and AI are reshaping industries, but they don’t have to be your enemies. By focusing on roles that require human empathy, creativity, and complex problem-solving, you can ensure that your career remains resilient against technological change. There will always be a demand for human expertise, so position yourself in areas where you’ll be irreplaceable.

Opportunities are out there, but they’re reserved for those who are ready. Don’t let the economy dictate your future, take the first step today. Explore these careers, develop your skills, and build a future-proof career that will thrive in any economy.

Yes, the world is changing, but you can navigate it and thrive. With the right preparation and a willingness to grow, you can ensure that your ability to adapt within your career changes with it — and for the better.

Interested in pursuing a fully accredited, biblically based education?  Liberty University  has been training students to serve as “Champions for Christ” in their respective professions across the industry spectrum for over 50 years. With over 350 residential academic concentrations, 20 NCAA Division 1  athletic programs , opportunities to  serve domestically and abroad , and an unapologetic Christian worldview, your experience at Liberty University will provide an education that roots you in truth and allows you to learn, grow, and impact the culture for Christ.  Apply now!

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Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

via LinkedIn Learning Help

• Improve your problem-solving skills
• Know yourself
• Staying focused
• Asking questions
• Analyzing information
• Important parameters
• Simple problem-solving models
• Complex problem-solving methods
• Understanding the problem
• Determine your criteria
• Find solutions
• Limit decisions and final choice
• Implementing your solution
• Avoiding logical fallacies
• Avoiding data manipulation
• Avoiding small group pitfalls
• Ready to practice

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