Seven Dispositions for Good Thinking

 

1

The disposition to be broad & adventurous

The tendency to be open-minded; to explore alternative views; an alertness to narrow thinking; the ability to generate multiple options or solutions

 

2

The disposition toward wondering, problem-finding, and investigating

The tendency to wonder, probe, find problems, a zest for inquiry, an alertness to puzzles, the ability for formulate questions

 

 

3

The disposition to build explanations & understandings

A desire to explore the parts and function of things, to seek connections and explanations; an ability to build complex conceptualizations

4

The disposition to make plans and be strategic

The drive to set goals, to make and evaluate plans, to envision outcomes, alertness to lack of direction; the ability to formulate goals and plans

5

The disposition to be intellectually careful

The urge for precision, organization, thoroughness; an alertness to error or inaccuracy, the ability to process information precisely

 

 

6

The disposition to seek & evaluate reasons

The tendency to question the given, to demand justification; an alertness to the need for evidence; an ability to weigh and assess reasons

 

 

7

The disposition to be metacognitive

The tendency to be aware of and monitor the flow of one’s own thinking; alertness to complex thinking situations; the ability to exercise control of mental processes and to be reflective