Critical Thinking is an active and systematic process Communication The art and technique of using words effectively to impart information or ideas – American Heritage Dictionary, 2005 Articulation – The ability to tell others exactly what in an argument is good or bad – Institute for Critical Thinking, Montclair State University Problem Solving The ability to address complex situations or questions that do not have one correct answer but must be figured out as well as possible – Nosich, 2005 Evaluation The ability to use criteria and standards to judge the quality and value of ideas, products, or procedures – Carey, 2001 Analysis The ability to divide a concept or unit into smaller parts so the parts and the relationship among them is clear – Carey, 2001 Synthesis The ability to combine and integrate separate elements according to their relationship … to organize, summarize, and explain information and make predictions – Harris, 2001 Reflection The reflective mind seeks meaning, monitors what it thinks, and draws a clear distinction between its thinking and the thinking of its audience – Elder & Paul, 2003 Individually and in community To Foster understanding Support sound decision-making Guide action