Build the critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities that allow you to tackle complex challenges, make well-supported decisions, and communicate your reasoning with confidence in both professional and personal settings.
In a fast-moving, information-saturated world, the ability to analyze situations clearly, evaluate options objectively, and reach evidence-based conclusions is among the most valuable skills any professional can develop. Organizations rely on people who can think their way through ambiguity and make sound judgments under pressure. This intensive two-day workshop is specifically designed to sharpen your analytical reasoning, creative problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities across any setting.
At its core, critical thinking involves questioning assumptions, identifying cognitive biases, and evaluating evidence rigorously to form sound conclusions. In an environment flooded with competing information and conflicting perspectives, the ability to distinguish facts from opinions and logic from emotion is essential. Through real-world examples and interactive exercises, participants will develop disciplined thinking habits that support more effective problem-solving and more confident decision-making.
The workshop also emphasizes the creative side of thinking. Participants will explore how analytical and creative modes of thought work together to form a whole-brain approach to problem-solving, enabling you to analyze data rigorously while also generating innovative solutions. A project manager facing resource constraints, for example, can apply analytical reasoning to reprioritize tasks while using creative thinking to develop alternative approaches that preserve quality and keep timelines intact.
A key focus of the program is understanding and overcoming the common pitfalls that undermine clear reasoning: cognitive biases, emotional influences, and the pressures of groupthink. Participants will learn to identify these barriers, challenge faulty assumptions, and evaluate arguments with genuine objectivity. The course also develops active listening and strategic questioning techniques, two essential tools for surfacing insights and fostering productive dialogue.
Structured decision-making frameworks are introduced and practiced throughout, guiding participants through a systematic process of defining problems, analyzing root causes, generating alternatives, and selecting optimal solutions. Practical tools such as the "5 Whys" analysis and the "Cause-and-Effect Diagram" are covered so participants can apply them immediately upon returning to work.
Beyond the professional setting, critical thinking strengthens personal decision-making as well, helping individuals evaluate information more carefully in financial choices, conflict resolution, and persuasive communication. In team environments, these skills support open-minded dialogue and reduce misunderstandings. A workforce trained in critical thinking drives a culture of continuous improvement in which decisions are well-justified, transparent, and aligned with organizational goals.
Course Outcomes
- Define critical thinking and distinguish it from non-critical approaches to problems
- Identify your personal strengths and development areas within preferred modes of critical thinking
- Explore thinking models, including left-brain, right-brain, and whole-brain thinking, for greater problem-solving versatility
- Apply critical thinking processes to construct, analyze, and evaluate logical arguments
- Develop well-reasoned explanations and assess their clarity and persuasiveness
- Strengthen key critical thinking skills through active listening, strategic questioning, and reflective thought
- Combine analytical reasoning with creative problem-solving to generate effective solutions
- Build well-structured, convincing arguments and present them with clarity and confidence
Who Should Register?
- Managers and Supervisors seeking to make more informed, strategic decisions that improve team performance
- Business Professionals looking to analyze data, evaluate information, and communicate logical recommendations
- Educators and Trainers who want tools to model and teach critical thinking to others
- HR Professionals applying critical thinking to hiring decisions, conflict resolution, and employee development
- Project Managers and Team Leaders improving problem-solving and risk evaluation capabilities
- Executives and Senior Leaders refining high-level reasoning to guide organizations through complex challenges
- Students and Lifelong Learners building foundational thinking skills for academic and professional success
This course is available for "remote" learning and will be available to anyone with access to an internet device with a microphone (this includes most models of computers, tablets). Classes will take place with a "Live" instructor at the date/times listed below.
Upon registration, the instructor will send along additional information about how to log-on and participate in the class.
