Critical Thinking

Course Objectives

Critical Thinking is one of the most in-demand skills of tomorrow. According to the World Economic Forum, Critical Thinking was named one of the "Top 10 Skills" needed in 2020.

Critical Thinking is the ability to process a high level of complex information, analyze it to identify problems and quickly find appropriate solutions. It also involves effective and persuasive communication to stakeholders to achieve desired outcomes.

In this course, students will gain the ability to:

  • Approach complex business problems and formulate more effective solutions
  • Perform critical evaluations free from preconceptions and bias
  • Identify new ways of solving problems
  • Communicate their conclusions persuasively to achieve a desired outcome

This course is intended for all business people, regardless of industry, area of responsibility, or experience. It is recommended for those who want to improve their problem-solving skills and their ability to communicate and convince stakeholders in order to accomplish their goals.

 

Theme/Reading Materials

Day 1
Session A
THEME Logical Thinking
CASE ・ Critical Thinking ―4th Edition―
Session B
THEME Techniques for Building Logical Arguments
CASE ・ Critical Thinking ―4th Edition―
 
Day 2
Session A
THEME Formulating Frameworks
CASE ・ Critical Thinking ―4th Edition―
Session B
THEME Formulating Preliminary Hypotheses
CASE ・ Critical Thinking ―4th Edition―
 
Day 3
Session A
THEME Testing and Refining Hypotheses
CASE ・ Critical Thinking ―4th Edition―
・ Planet Consulting: Submission to the President
Session B
THEME Testing and Refining Hypotheses and Reaching Conclusions
CASE ・ Critical Thinking ―4th Edition―
 
Day 4
Session A
THEME Identify and Solve the Problem (First Half)
CASE ・ Enjoy Glasses Co. Ltd.
Session B
THEME Identify and Solve the Problem (Second Half)
CASE ・ Enjoy Glasses Co. Ltd.
 
Day 5
Session A
THEME Techniques for Obtaining Buy-In
CASE ・ Critical Thinking ―4th Edition―
Session B
THEME Identifying Causes
CASE ・ Critical Thinking ―4th Edition―
・ Planet Consulting: Submission to the President
 
Day 6
Session A
THEME Techniques for Gaining Support
CASE ・ Critical Thinking ―4th Edition―
Session B
THEME Techniques for Gaining Supporting/ Reflection
CASE ・ Critical Thinking ―4th Edition―

Faculty

Tomoko Katsurayama
Tomoko Katsurayama
Critical and Analytical Skills, Marketing and Strategy, Organizational Behavior and HRM