Critical thinking in organizations

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the history of critical thinking as a seminal and foundational skill for small groups. The paper shows that much of the team research focuses on the elementary functions of decision‐making processes, task fulfilment, and project management. Virtual teaming research adds some of the complexities introduced by working in and between cultures, across time zones and related difficulties in coordination and meaning‐making activities for the virtual team.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper seeks to review the definitions of critical thinking, and review the literature relative to small group activities and the impacts and requirements of critical thinking for effective team functioning. The notion of reflective journaling is introduced as a way in which to introduce improved critical thinking into the organization at the level of the individual for performance organizational performance.

Findings

The paper finds that critical thinking within teams will improve organizational performance. It will also enhance any training and development initiatives. The topic is introduced as an information analysis of the field of critical thinking, and its impact on individuals working in teams. Authorial content is presented which can become the elements of a critical thinking checklist for team practitioners in the organization to enhance critical thinking at the individual, organization and societal levels.

Originality/value

In this paper useful ideas for established or “to be established” teams and improving performance are shown.

Citation

Natale, S. and Ricci, F. (2006), "Critical thinking in organizations", Team Performance Management, Vol. 12 No. 7/8, pp. 272-277. https://doi.org/10.1108/13527590610711822