Critical Thinking and the Library: Videos

What is credibility, and why is it so important? This program begins with an exploration of the concept of credibility and illustrates the key criteria of motive, bias, vested interest, neutrality, ability to perceive, and expertise. A reconstruction of a famous murder case from the 1920s is then used to provide the material for viewers to evaluate the credibility of the evidence that was used. Finally, critical thinking author and former chief examiner Dr. Roy van den Brink-Budgen provides his analysis of the case study and follow up support material. A viewable/printable worksheet is available online. Part of the series Critical Thinking. (39 minutes)

 

It’s natural to make assumptions. In some ways they save time and help people make effective decisions. But assumptions can sometimes be very wrong. This program offers exercises that illustrate the use of assumptions and that help students hone their critical thinking skills. Viewers are asked to find the assumptions in a film and discussion about the rise in binge drinking among young women, after which author Roy van den Brink-Budgen (Critical Thinking for Students) gives his analysis and provides follow-up support material. A viewable/printable worksheet is available online. Part of the series Critical Thinking. (26 minutes)

 

How can evidence be presented for maximum effectiveness in arguments? Simply laying it all out is not always enough, but hiding parts of it is not the answer, either. This program begins by illustrating the meaning and significance of evidence and the presentation of evidence in numbers, percentages, rates, and over time. An argument against zoos then gives viewers the opportunity to evaluate how evidence is used to support the arguments being made. Author Roy van den Brink-Budgen (Critical Thinking for Students) then provides his analysis of the zoo case study. A viewable/printable worksheet is available online. Part of the series Critical Thinking. (25 minutes)