How is critical thinking valued by the labour market? Employer perspectives from different European countries

Abstract

Although Critical Thinking (CT) has been a desirable aim expressed both by higher education institutions and labour market professionals, studies on what CT means and what it looks like in the workplace are scarce. The current study intends to tackle this gap by sharing findings about the importance of CT and its practical manifestation in professions from the points of view of 189 European employers. Data shows that CT is recognized mostly as: (1) the capacity to avoid mistakes and make right decisions; (2) the capacity to correct and regulate oneself; and (3) as a social responsibility. Our findings prove that CT is valued not only insofar as it contributes to professional success, but also for personal improvement and common good. Unfortunately, participants tend to share general and ambiguous ideas about the importance of CT rather than presenting concrete, practice-based professional life examples illustrating its understanding and application within their organizations.