Description
Project 5: Apply Critical Thinking
There are six steps that will lead you through this project. Most steps of this project should take no more than two hours to complete. Begin by watching the video above, which introduces the fictional scenario that forms the framework for this project. Then continue with Step 1: Prepare to Think Critically.
Step 1: Prepare to Think Critically
In this first step, you will prepare to respond to your boss’s request for an analysis of a problem in your organization. You realize that this will require careful thinking. So, you need to take time to review the process of critical thinking and problem analysis, as well as key habits of master thinkers and ethical decision making.
When you have finished your review of the learning resources, move on to the next step to identify the problem.
Step 2: Identify the Problem
Now that you’re prepared to think critically, it’s time to analyze the situation. Remember the direction from your CEO is to analyze the situation and advise on the two lawsuits. Review the video or transcript in the Start Here as needed.
We suggest focusing on determining if a conflict of interest would exist in handling the two cases that might be related and on advising your CEO on how to proceed.
Outline the points that you want to make in the first two sections of your paper (introduction and explanation), and draft those sections.
Step 3: Analyze the Information
Now that you have some understanding of the nature of the problem and the parties involved, it’s time to gather and analyze information. The problem analysis resources will aid your analysis and development of the third section of the paper.
Outline the points that you want to make in Section 3: Analysis of the Information, then draft that section.
In the following step, you will consider other viewpoints, conclusions, and solutions.
Step 4: Consider and Analyze Other Viewpoints, Conclusions, and Solutions
Once you have completed your analysis of the incident, the next step is to consider other viewpoints, conclusions, and solutions. To do this, you will need to apply ethical decision making skills. If you missed it earlier, we also recommend that you read Randolph Pherson’s “The Five Habits of the Master Thinker,” a paper written for intelligence analysts, but applicable to all analytical thinking and reasoning.
Outline the points that you want to make in Section 4: Analysis of Alternative Viewpoints, Conclusions, and Solutions, and draft that section of your paper.
When you are finished, move to the next step, which involves developing your conclusions.
Step 5: Develop Well-Reasoned Conclusions
Now that you’ve considered various viewpoints, you’re ready to develop your own personal conclusions and suggest solutions that your boss can bring to leadership in briefing them about the situation.
Remember, you may need to consult outside references, but this is not a research paper. It should be investigative in nature about the facts of the case. Cite any outside sources carefully.
Now, outline your argument and draft Section 5: Conclusions and Recommendations, the final section. Your boss is expecting to receive a concise, focused paper to prepare for further meetings. Stay focused on the main points, although you may have many facts that could be used to answer any questions. You will submit your paper in the final step.
Step 6: Submit the Critical Thinking Paper
The final paper should be no more than five double-spaced pages, excluding the cover page and references page(s). Organize the paper in accordance with your preparatory steps, using these subheadings:
Title of Paper (centered and bold) There is no heading named “Introduction”
Explanation of the Issue (centered and bold)
Analysis of the Information (centered and bold)
Consideration of Alternative Viewpoints, Conclusions, and Solutions (centered and bold)
Conclusions and Recommendations (centered and bold)
If you have used any outside sources, you will include a References page in proper APA 7 format.
Here are some tips for success:
Consider outside sources if they inform your case. However, stay on task.
Use APA style for in-text and reference citations. At this point, your citations should be error-free.
Consider these best practices for a paper:
An effective introduction grabs the reader’s attention and sets the tone and direction for the rest of the paper.
Supporting paragraphs move the reader from the general introduction to the more specific aspects of your analysis.
Body paragraphs provide support for your argument.
A conclusion leads to a natural closing for what you have presented.
