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Succeeding in postgraduate study
Succeeding in postgraduate study

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7 Summary and reflection

You can use this visual summary to review topics that were discussed in this session. Visual summaries offer a valuable means of revisiting and reflecting on a topic, and can be powerful study tools. Take some time to go through this, before moving on.

A visual summary of critical and analytical thinking
Figure 2A visual summary of critical and analytical thinking

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The activity below encourages you to reflect further on a topic of your choice.

Activity 6 Reflecting on Session 3

Timing: Allow approximately 20 minutes

Based on what you have learned in Session 3, either create a mind map or write a learning journal entry on ONE of the following topics:

  • why critical thinking is important at postgraduate level
  • qualities and attributes of a critical thinker
  • how to evaluate an argument.

Use your mind map or learning journal to reflect on your chosen topic and identify any areas that you are unsure of, or think you should explore further.

Now go back to your academic and professional skills checklist, and look at how you assessed your ability in the ‘critical and analytical thinking’ domains (developing reasoning and argument). If you think that you are now at a higher level of understanding than your initial estimate, then mark this down on the form.

Remember to review your progress at the end of each session, as you work your way through the course.