Question

Which of the following describes the student's thinking in a situation where, after receiving feedback and alternative perspectives from the instructor, the student refuses to consider these viewpoints and insists that their decision is correct?

a) Open-minded and receptive to feedback
b) Closed-minded and resistant to alternative views
c) Collaborative and adaptive to new information
d) Reflective and open to continuous learning.

Answer 1

The student's refusal to consider alternative perspectives is not reflective of good critical thinking or openness to continuous learning. Instead, it demonstrates a lack of critical reflection and epistemic humility, which are crucial for developing critical thinking skills.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's thinking described in the situation where feedback and alternative perspectives are rejected in favor of their pre-existing decision is indicative of a lack of critical reflection and epistemic humility. To foster good critical thinking, a student needs to adopt a mindset of critical reflection, be open to skepticism concerning their beliefs, and resist cognitive biases by engaging in metacognitive practices. Reflective thought is key in developing one's critical thinking skills, which involves self-awareness and the questioning of one's intuition and preconceived notions.

To overcome poor habits of mind, it is important to engage in metacognition, the process of thinking about one's own thinking patterns, and to assess and critique these patterns to achieve more rational, evidence-based conclusions. Considering alternative viewpoints is essential in this process, as it allows one to re-examine and potentially revise their beliefs based on new information and reasoning. This approach requires adopting a stance of humility and recognizing the fallibility and limited scope of one's knowledge.