Understanding critical thinking: a guide for international students studying in the UK

Studying in a new country is an exciting adventure, and one important skill you will need is critical thinking. In the UK, universities encourage students to think critically. This means your UK professors want you to not just accept information as it is, but to question it, analyse it, and form your own opinions (more on the definition of critical thinking below). This approach may be different from what you're used to in your own country. For example, if you come from China, where Confucian values emphasise respect for teachers and learning from their wisdom, this may be a bit of an ‘education culture’ shock. While respecting your teachers and learning from their knowledge is important, in the UK, you are also encouraged to actively engage with the material. This means questioning ideas, discussing different viewpoints, and thinking independently. Embracing both approaches can help you become a more well-rounded and insightful student. Let me walk you through critical thinking to make it easy to understand (this is an introductory post on critical thinking and information presented in it should be treated as such).

What is an Argument?

In English, when we talk about an "argument," we don't mean a fight or disagreement. An argument is a statement or series of statements that present a point of view or belief. For example:

• Statement: "Exercise is good for health."

• Reason: "It helps to keep your heart strong and improves your mood."

In this example, the statement is supported by a reason. This is a simple argument.

What is Critical Thinking?

Critical thinking means carefully evaluating arguments and evidence to decide what to believe or do. It involves thinking clearly and rationally, understanding the logical connection between ideas. Here’s an easy definition:

‘Critical thinking is a kind of thinking in which you question, analyse, interpret, evaluate and make a judgement about what you read, hear, say, or write’ (Monash University, 2024).

Why is Critical Thinking Important?

Generally speaking ,critical thinking allows us for a better understanding of the world. It is an ability that helps us to make better informed decisions. Academically speaking, critical thinking is essential for every aspect of your study: reading and listening (selecting credible sources) writing and speaking (presenting a well-informed position/opinion),  believing and creating (Cottrell, 2019). In the UK, universities encourage students to think critically. What is more, this skill is crucial for your studies but also for your future career because it helps you make informed decisions and solve problems effectively.

Examples of Critical Thinking

1. Evaluating sources: When you read an article, ask yourself, "Who wrote this? Is the author an expert in this topic/ area? Is the information reliable?"

For instance, if you read an article in an academic journal check the methods that the author used, data that is presented in the analysis, check the author’s credentials as well as citations/references.

Imagine you found an article titled "The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health" published in the "Journal of Psychology and Behavioural Science." You check:

·       Author’s credentials: The author is a professors with multiple publications on mental health.

·       Peer review: The article notes it underwent peer review.

·       Citations and references: The article cites over 50 sources and has been cited by other researchers.

·       Research methodology: The methods section is detailed, explaining the tools and statistical analyses used.

·       Objective and balanced: The article discusses different perspectives and acknowledges limitations.

·       Abstract and conclusion: The abstract clearly summarizes the study, and the conclusion logically follows from the presented data.

Does this seem like a credible source to you?

1. Comparing arguments: Suppose you have to write an essay on renewable energy. You find different opinions. Some say it’s the future, while others highlight its limitations. What do you do? Employ your critical thinking which involves comparing these arguments, looking at the evidence (literature and data presented in various sources), synthesizing these different sources of evidence and then deciding which perspective is more convincing.
   

2. Identifying bias: Sometimes, information can be presented in a way that favours a particular viewpoint. Imagine you come across a research study titled "The Benefits of Brand X Energy Drink on Athletic Performance". The study was conducted by scientists funded by Brand X, the company that produces the energy drink. Does this study seem impartial?

Recognizing such bias in literature is a key part of critical thinking.

Now let us have a look at the ways we can practice critical thinking both in daily life and in your studies.

How to Practice Critical Thinking

• Ask questions: don’t take everything at face value. Ask questions like, "Why is this true?", "What evidence supports this?", “What alternative perspectives are there?”

• Discuss: engage in discussions with classmates and teachers. Hearing different perspectives helps you think critically.

• Reflect: after reading or learning something new, take a moment to reflect. Do you agree with it? Why or why not?

Conclusion

As you now probably see, critical thinking is an essential skill for your studies. It involves elements of questioning, analysing, evaluating, making judgements and reflecting. By employing these you will develop an invaluable life skill – critical thinking. Remember, the goal is not just to learn information, but to understand and apply it.

Reference list

Cottrell, S. (2019) The study skills handbook. Fifth edition. London: Bloomsbury Academic, Red Globe Press, Macmillan Education.

Monash University (2024) Available at: https://www.monash.edu/student-academic-success/enhance-your-thinking/critical-thinking/what-is-critical-thinking (Accessed: 07/08/2024).