Developing Critical Thinking
Assignment Brief
Developing Critical Thinking
|
Be able to critically assess own beliefs, attitudes and value systems Provide a correct and appropriate explanation of the difference between beliefs, attitudes and values and the cognitive structure of beliefs, attitudes and values, and to use relevant theoretical models or techniques to critically assess and make a judgement on how beliefs, attitudes and values impact on own behaviour. |
|
|
Be able to critically assess the validity of management theories in relation to own beliefs, attitudes and values Identify management theories, making clear why they are relevant to your role, and use applicable theoretical models or techniques to critically assess the impact of own beliefs, attitudes and values on the theories to make a judgement. You are then required to use this critical assessment to evaluate and reach a conclusion as to how someone with different, beliefs, attitudes and values might interpret the theory differently. |
|
Sample Answer
Developing Critical Thinking
Understanding Beliefs Attitudes and Values
Beliefs, attitudes and values are often used interchangeably in everyday language, yet they represent distinct but interconnected aspects of the human cognitive structure. Beliefs can be understood as convictions or perceptions about the world which individuals hold to be true. They form the foundation of knowledge and influence how a person interprets reality. For example, someone may believe that hard work leads to success, and this belief guides their expectations about effort and reward.
Attitudes, in contrast, are evaluative tendencies towards people, situations or objects. They involve an emotional or affective component, a behavioural intention, and a cognitive element. An attitude may be positive or negative, and unlike beliefs, which are statements of truth, attitudes reflect a predisposition to act in a certain way. For instance, holding a positive attitude towards teamwork may result in greater willingness to collaborate with colleagues.
Values are deeper and more enduring standards which guide behaviour and decision-making. They represent what individuals consider to be important, such as honesty, respect, or social responsibility. Unlike beliefs, which can be based on factual or perceived truth, values are moral benchmarks that influence choices and priorities. The cognitive structure of beliefs, attitudes and values therefore resembles a hierarchy, with values shaping attitudes and beliefs, which in turn affect behaviour. The Rokeach Value Survey and Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behaviour illustrate how values underpin attitudes, and how these attitudes influence actions.
The Impact of Beliefs Attitudes and Values on Behaviour
When applied to personal behaviour, beliefs, attitudes and values act as internal guides that shape decision-making and interpersonal relationships. My own belief in the importance of continuous learning has influenced my attitude towards professional development, which remains strongly positive. This attitude drives specific behaviours such as seeking training opportunities and welcoming feedback from colleagues. Similarly, the value I place on fairness and equality has shaped the way I interact with others in group projects. I tend to ensure that everyone has an equal voice, and I challenge behaviours that appear exclusionary.
Critical reflection also reveals limitations. For example, a belief that efficiency is paramount sometimes leads to impatience when tasks are delayed, which may conflict with my value of empathy. This illustrates the tension that can occur between different beliefs and values, and highlights how self-awareness is necessary to balance them effectively. The Theory of Cognitive Dissonance by Festinger explains this conflict well, suggesting that when beliefs and values are misaligned, discomfort arises and individuals are motivated to reduce inconsistency by changing their attitudes or behaviours. In practice, this has led me to reconsider rigid beliefs about efficiency and to adapt my behaviour in ways that maintain harmony with my values of empathy and respect.
Continued...
