Critical thinking and problem solving as a key priority in the APS
- Review the current context and landscape for problem-solving in the APS
- Why problem-solving has been identified as a top skilling priority across all levels of the APS
- How critical thinking provides the necessary lens to frame problems rationally and produce evidence-based solutions
- How problem-solving ability could drive your career advancement
Unpacking critical thinking techniques
- The cognitive principles, tools and strategies essential to critical thinking
- Reviewing critical thinking tools, identifying limitations and strengths
- Learning how to objectively collect and evaluate evidence
- Developing whole-brain thinking and exploring creative thinking for generating new ideas and making connections
Problem-solving methods and key tools
- Reviewing common types of problems
- Root cause analysis - getting to the heart of the problem
- Explore how Systems Thinking is applied to provide clarity around root causes, interdependencies, possible constraints and outcomes
- Creating a process map or mind map to provide clarity around the problem
- Creative problem-solving techniques and activities
Working with others on problem-solving
- Facilitating a shared understanding of issues and problems
- Preparation and presentation of evidence-based arguments and solutions
- Resolving conflict and challenges in group problem solving
- Addressing cognitive biases, ideological conflict and problems arising in groups