Critical Thinking and Emotional Intelligence Skills

Course Objectives

• Understand the key concepts and principles of critical thinking and emotional intelligence.
• Recognise the importance of critical thinking and emotional intelligence in personal, academic, and professional contexts.
• Develop practical skills to analyse information, question assumptions, and make sound decisions.
• Enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation to respond effectively to challenges and stress.
• Foster empathy and active listening to build stronger, more respectful relationships.
• Learn techniques to resolve conflicts and communicate assertively in diverse environments.
• Encourage a reflective and open-minded approach to problem-solving and teamwork.
• Promote a positive and supportive culture in schools, workplaces, or any collaborative setting.

Schedule

MODULE 1 – Foundations of Critical Thinking and Emotional Intelligence

• Introduction to critical thinking: concepts, myths, and real-world relevance
• Emotional intelligence: definitions, components (self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, social skills)
• Interconnection between thinking and emotion in decision-making
• Self-assessment: personal profile in critical thinking and emotional intelligence

MODULE 2 – Critical Thinking in Action

• Skills for analysis, evaluation, inference, and reflection
• Identifying logical fallacies, cognitive biases, and assumptions
• Fact-checking: distinguishing facts from opinions
• Practical tools: mind mapping, argument mapping, and decision trees
• Case study analysis and “thinking traps” in everyday life

MODULE 3 – Emotional Intelligence for Personal and Professional Growth

• Self-awareness: recognising personal emotions, triggers, and strengths
• Self-regulation: strategies for managing stress, impulses, and reactions
• Empathy: understanding others’ perspectives and emotions
• Emotional resilience in challenging environments
• Integrating emotional intelligence into academic and workplace situations

MODULE 4 – Communication, Dialogue, and Active Listening

• Principles of assertive communication and feedback
• Non-verbal communication and its impact on understanding
• Techniques for active listening and building trust
• Navigating difficult conversations and emotional discussions
• Tools for fostering psychological safety and open dialogue in teams

MODULE 5 – Creative Problem Solving and Decision Making

• Structured approaches: lateral thinking, brainstorming, and root cause analysis
• Group decision-making: consensus, compromise, and collaborative thinking
• Using emotional intelligence to overcome barriers to creative thinking
• Applied exercises: resolving “real-life” dilemmas through group work
• Digital tools and apps for collaborative thinking and problem-solving

MODULE 6 – Conflict Management and Critical Reflection

• Types of conflict and their root causes (personal, group, intercultural)
• Conflict resolution strategies: negotiation, mediation, restorative practices
• Using critical thinking to deconstruct and understand conflict situations
• Emotional regulation during conflict: strategies and techniques
• Reflection on personal conflict style and developing an action plan for improvement

MODULE 7 – Integrating Skills: Personal Action Project

• Designing a personal or group project to address a real challenge (academic, professional, or social)
• Step-by-step application of critical thinking and emotional intelligence to the project
• Peer coaching: sharing progress, feedback, and obstacles
• Presenting project outcomes and reflecting on personal growth
• Planning next steps for continued development

OPTIONAL MODULE – Advanced Tools and Digital Resources

• Exploring apps and digital resources for self-reflection and group collaboration
• Introduction to AI and critical thinking in the digital age
• Using online platforms for debate, discussion, and collaborative learning
• Creating digital portfolios to document skill development