Critical Thinking for Managers

In this program, managers will develop the critical thinking skills needed to navigate complex challenges and make sound decisions in their organizations. Participants will learn how to assess situations from multiple perspectives, identify underlying biases, and employ structured thinking to resolve problems effectively. Through a combination of self-paced learning, collaborative discussions, and applied practice, this course equips managers to lead with clarity and confidence. They’ll learn to foster an environment that values thoughtful decision-making, enhance team performance, and drive better outcomes across the board. Whether refining their ability to analyze data, understand stakeholder needs, or challenge assumptions, participants will leave equipped with practical tools to think critically and act decisively. 

Learning outcomes

• Knowledge: 
  Define key principles and components of critical thinking in decision-making.   
  Differentiate between logical reasoning, emotional reasoning, and intuition. 
  
• Skills:
  Analyze complex problems to identify root causes and contributing factors.  
  Apply frameworks to evaluate the validity of information and arguments.  
  Develop strategies to mitigate bias and promote balanced decision-making.
  Facilitate critical thinking in team discussions to enhance collaboration.
  Design action plans grounded in evidence and logical analysis.  

• Character: 
  Recognize and challenge personal and organizational biases.
  Cultivate curiosity and openness to diverse viewpoints in problem-solving.  
  Foster accountability by owning and reflecting on decision outcomes.  

Program flow

1. Pre-Course Assignment:
   Reflective journal on recent decisions and their outcomes  (Learning Outcome 1 - skills)
2. Module 1: Developing Emotional Intelligence for Critical Thinking 
   (Learning Outcomes 4, 6 - character, skills)
   Activities: Role-playing scenarios to recognize emotional and cognitive biases.   
3. Module 2: Collaborative Problem Analysis Workshop 
   (Learning Outcome 2 - skills)
   Activities: Team-based exercises to identify root causes of workplace challenges.   
4. Module 3: Effective Communication in Decision-Making  
   (Learning Outcome 7 - skills)
   Activities: Practicing active listening and framing constructive arguments.   
5. Group Activity: Facilitating Critical Thinking Discussions  
   (Learning Outcomes 6, 7 - skills)  
   Peer-led discussions and feedback sessions to promote openness and collaborative thinking.   
6. Module 4: Building Consensus Without Compromising Logic  
   (Learning Outcomes 3, 5 - skills)  
   Activities: Group exercises to balance diverse viewpoints while maintaining analytical rigor.   
7. Case Study Workshop: Challenging Assumptions in Real-Life Scenarios
   (Learning Outcomes 4, 6 - character, skills)   Focus on addressing biases and fostering curiosity within teams.   
8. Module 5: Leading with Accountability in Decision-Making  
   (Learning Outcome 9 - character, skills)
   Activities: Reflective storytelling and action planning for personal accountability.   
9. Simulation Exercise: Decision-Making Under Pressure  
   (Learning Outcomes 2, 7 - skills)
   Participants engage in simulated high-stakes scenarios requiring quick, critical thinking and teamwork.   
10. Final Project Presentation: Crafting and Delivering a Decision Plan  
    (Learning Outcome 10 - skills)  
    Teams present solutions to a complex organizational challenge, emphasizing both logic and soft skills. 

Target Audience

• Mid-level managers looking to enhance their problem-solving and decision-making abilities.  
• Leaders aiming to improve team dynamics and foster a culture of thoughtful decision-making.
• Professionals preparing for senior roles where strategic thinking is essential.