A Practical Coaching Model for Critical Thinking Skill and Leadership Development (C/CTSLD)

Abstract

Critical thinking skills are a core competency needed by today’s leaders. However, a deficiency in critical thinkingskills in the workplace has been well documented, and research has shown dire consequences for the individual andthe organization. This paper espouses a practical coaching model for improving critical thinking skills andfacilitating leadership development. Using a solution-focused approach with the six critical thinking skills asidentified by the APA Delphi Research Report, its iterative nature fosters the formation of “habits of mind”. Usingcoaching (questioning) techniques on the first four skills, qualitative (interview) data was gathered from new entrantsinto the workforce. Improvements in their critical thinking skills were measured using quantitative data (pre, mid andpost) gathered from the California Critical Thinking Skills Test. Results showed improvements in critical thinkingskills for almost all participants (future leaders). These findings support the value and use of coaching and criticalthinking skill development in management/leadership development programs, or any program focused on personaland/or professional development. Future research warrants the use of an extended coaching schedule (for individualand group participation) and the inclusion of the last two skills. In addition, the use of a larger research sample andfollow-up testing/evaluation for a year to validate the formation of “habits of mind” is needed.