Details
About the workshop
Aimed at Grade 9-10 officers and management, this two-day workshop will provide an opportunity to advance critical thinking and problem solving capabilities expected of Grade 9-10 officers.
Critical thinking and problem solving have been identified as key skills required of officers at many levels of the NSW Public Sector. In an environment where evidence is paramount, this highly valued skill set will become a key differentiator among high performing leaders of the future. Critical thinking is at the heart of effective problem solving and decision making at any level of management. As a Grade 9-10 officer, you are at the ideal level to establish core skills in this domain.
We have developed this practical training program to kick start your journey to becoming a discerning critical thinker and seasoned problem solver. Participants will learn practical skills and techniques to critically appraise problems and understand their root causes and impacts. Through a systematic approach you will be able to develop evidence-based solutions to problems as well as plan and prepare strong arguments for change and improvement.
Agenda
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving in the NPS
- Analyse why problem-solving is a priority across the NPS
- Apply critical thinking to frame problems and generate evidence-based solutions
- Recognise how these skills can drive career progression
Critical Thinking Techniques
- Apply cognitive tools and strategies to improve reasoning
- Assess personal strengths and limitations in critical thinking
- Evaluate evidence objectively and systematically
Problem-Solving Methods and Tools
- Diagnose problems using root cause analysis and systems thinking
- Map processes to define problems clearly
- Apply creative problem-solving techniques
Collaborative Problem Solving
- Facilitate shared understanding of complex issues
- Present evidence-based solutions with impact
- Manage conflict and cognitive biases in group settings
Understanding the Problem
- Define and agree on the problem
- Assess the impacts and consequences
- Establish criteria for effective solutions
Identifying and Evaluating Solutions
- Compare solutions for feasibility, impact, and risk
- Address complex or wicked problems with structured tools
- Prioritise available resources and options
Problem-Solving in Action
- Apply critical thinking at each step of the problem-solving process
- Analyse causes, variables, and interdependencies
- Implement, monitor, and evaluate outcomes
Enhancing Critical Thinking Skills
- Reflect on key insights and personal growth
- Identify actions to apply back at work
- Build an action plan for continued development
Tailor Your Training Experience
To make sure you get the learning solution that’s right for you, we offer different levels of tailoring to suit your needs. Choose from three levels of customisation:
1.Off the Shelf
Love what you see? Great! Choose this option to take one of our most popular courses and bring it in-house for your team. Includes a pre-course consult session with our facilitator to make sure we hit the mark, and deliver the right learning experience for you.
2.Customised
Make sure you get the most from the course you choose, by tailoring the content to get the right fit for you. Speak to our team, who will work with you to pick and mix from a curated bank of training modules to help customise your learning experience.
3.Premium
Not on the list? Let us know what you’re looking for and we will find the right solution. Our team of learning specialists will work with you to develop a unique training course for your business. Through an in-depth consultation process, we will work with you to profile your learning needs and build a bespoke program from the ground up.
Speak with one of our team today to find which option is right for you.
Who Will Attend
Aspiring, emerging and existing leaders across all disciplines and departments throughout the NSW Public Sector, including:
- Grade 9-10
- Officers
- Senior Officers
- Principal Officers
- Advisors
- Senior Advisors