by Athirah Sofea
In today’s digital age, critical thinking is more essential than ever. It involves thinking logically, clearly, and precisely to make sound decisions. Many people struggle with this skill, not due to a lack of ability, but because they haven’t fully developed it.
Technology has made information easily accessible, but it has also changed how we process and evaluate information. This shift can make it challenging for individuals to navigate complex professional environments and make effective decisions. The RED Model for Critical Thinking provides a powerful framework for improving decision-making skills.
The first step, (R)ecognise Assumptions, involves identifying and questioning the underlying assumptions and seeking evidence to support the information presented. By asking what the key problem is, examining the information available, and identifying any underlying assumptions, we can better understand the issue at hand and determine what additional information we need. This stage is crucial for building a comprehensive understanding of the situation and ensuring that our foundation of knowledge is solid.
The second step, (E)valuate Arguments, requires analysing information objectively. This means considering the pros and cons of the proposed solution, recognizing any biases, and understanding the potential implications of our decisions. By systematically evaluating arguments, we can anticipate the impact on others, identify risks, and seek ways to mitigate them, ensuring our decisions are well-rounded and free from emotional bias. This step helps us remain objective and critical, allowing for a thorough examination of all possible outcomes and their effects.
The final step, (D)raw Conclusions, focuses on synthesizing all the evidence to arrive at well-supported decisions. This stage encourages us to pull together all the supporting evidence, connect the dots, and compare our conclusions with similar past decisions while considering the broader implications. By consistently practicing this step, we develop good judgment and improve our decision-making abilities over time. This step is about making informed decisions and learning from the process to enhance future decision-making.
The RED Model is not a rigid set of instructions but a flexible guide that allows movement between stages as needed. By regularly applying this model, we can help our team navigate complexities and make informed, effective decisions in our ever-evolving environment.
