Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Faculty of Life Sciences

Trainer: PD Dr. Daniel Mertens, DKFZ, Heidelberg

Date: 12th October 2018, exact course time tba

Target group: Doctoral candidates from all research fields of our Faculty

Description:

Our thinking, left to itself, is in danger to be biased, distorted, partial, uninformed, or downright prejudiced. Yet, the quality of scientific evidence and that of what we produce, make, or build depends precisely on the quality of critical thinking. Critical thinking encompasses six vital skills: problem solving, analysis, creative thinking, interpretation, evaluation, and reasoning.

Objectives:

To provide doctoral students with an opportunity to build their understanding, skills and confidence in critical thinking. Take home messages are given as “Four Laws of …”.

Creativity

• Beware of assumptions
• Exploit the driving force of boredom
• Side projects and hobbies help to de- and refocus
• Creativity arises from limitation and subtraction

Self-awareness

• Know what you are feeling
• Anticipate how feelings will affect your behavior
• Decide on appropriate responses
• Act with attention to individuals

Method:

A balanced and structured program of interactive lectures, challenging activities outside of the “comfort zone” and review sessions will provide a variety of first-hand learning situations allowing participants to identify and take away relevant lessons (e.g. with Practical Advice Cards).

Registration