CTS A | Week 11: Summative Assessment Compulsory Question 1
I see the Critical Thinking module as a camera lens. One that allows me to zoom in and out of any issue by shifting effortlessly between finer details and the broader picture. With this lens, I can step back to gain wider perspectives or zoom in for deeper, more precise analysis. It helps me adjust my viewpoint, reduce distortion, and see ideas with greater clarity and objectivity. Like a camera lens, it also guides me to focus on areas where I can grow, sharpening the skills I may be lacking and continuously refining the way I think.
For our group mindmap, we illustrated a cat, representing Critical Thinking as the heart of curiosity. Just like a cat, the module encourages us to stay inquisitive and look beyond what is immediately visible. Cats constantly observe their surroundings, such as the space, mood, and behaviours of others. Similarly, Critical Thinking trains us to understand the context surrounding any idea, artwork, or text. It encourages us to form our own interpretations, question norms, and think independently. A cat doesn’t view the world from only one angle, and neither should we.
My favourite session was Emotional Intelligence. It allowed me to reflect on what I want to achieve as a designer and helped me become more self-aware in how I communicate my ideas. I realised the importance of expressing thoughts honestly without hurting others. Working in a group also taught me to see the bigger picture. With everyone’s ideas coming together, we uncover blind spots and understand things from different perspectives, which helps us grow.
However, I recognise that I could improve in how I respond to others. Sometimes I speak without filtering my thoughts, and my words may come across differently than intended. From “Empathy: How to Feel and Respond to the Emotions of Others” on HelpGuide.org, I learned the importance of listening with an open mind rather than immediately judging. At the same time, I am reminded through Claudia de Llano’s “Taking Care of Others’ Feelings and Your Own” that my feelings matter too, and I shouldn’t feel guilty for expressing myself while learning to communicate with kindness. (337 words)
“Empathy: How to Feel and Respond to the Emotions of Others.” HelpGuide.Org, 25 Sept. 2024, www.helpguide.org/relationships/communication/empathy.
Claudia de Llano. “Taking Care of Others' Feelings and Your Own.” Claudia de Llano, 24 Feb. 2025, www.theawakenedjourney.com/taking-care-of-others-feelings-and-your-own/.