Critical thinking in a world of AI

Critical Thinking in the Age of AI: An Essential Skill in the Digital Age  

With the rise of generative AI, smart recommendation algorithms, and always-on information, one skill is more important than ever: critical thinking . During the inspiring half -day workshop "Critical Thinking in the Age of AI," led by Dr. Elke Van Hoof, participants will gain insights and practical tools to maintain their thinking skills in a world full of digital distractions.  

What is critical thinking anyway?

According to Diane Halpern, critical thinking is the purposeful and reflective use of cognitive skills to make better decisions .
Paul & Elder go one step further: they see critical thinking as an attitude to life , a permanent willingness to question your own thinking.  
In human terms, that means: "Don't automatically trust what you hear, read, or feel. Check, doubt, and dare to revise."  

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9 brain check questions  

Participants learn to evaluate AI information against nine intellectual standards. Some examples:  

Is it clear? Do I really get it?
Is this correct? Can I verify this?  
Is it complete? Are there any relevant omissions?  
Is it fair? Are counterarguments also addressed?  

These thought questions are essential to avoid falling prey to clickbait, half-truths or AI hallucinations .  

The pitfalls of AI for our brain  

AI helps... but it can also weaken our thinking. Three striking insights:  

  1. Memory loss due to digital dependency  
    Thanks to AI, we have less to remember. Convenient, but also dangerous: we train our memory less and become dependent on digital aids.  

  2. Attention in fragmentation
    From TikTok to ChatGPT: AI is designed to capture your attention. Our brains are losing the ability to focus deeply.  

  3. Reduced problem solving  
    Why think for yourself when AI answers? But without practice, our problem-solving skills—crucial in work and life—will weaken.  

Thinking errors + AI = extra risk  

Participants will also learn how AI can amplify our natural thinking biases:  

Confirmation bias → You primarily look for AI output that confirms your opinion.  
Framing effect → The way AI formulates something influences your judgment.  
Overconfidence bias → “It sounds clever, so it must be true…”  

In addition, three digital pitfalls are highlighted:  

Echo chambers : algorithms reinforce your existing beliefs.  
AI trust : People accept AI output without questioning it.  
Black box problem : decisions are made without explanation or insight.  

Takeaways for your brain and your organization?

Elke Van Hoof concludes with a call to actively train your cognitive fitness, just as you do your physical fitness. Her tips :  

  • Train your memory (e.g. remember telephone numbers).  

  • Practice with brain teasers or reflection questions.  

  • Move and create “white time” for real focus.  

  • Use AI as a tool , not a replacement .  

Why is this relevant for Learning & Development?  

In an era of automation and digital acceleration, critical thinking is becoming a core competency in organizations. It enables employees to:  

  • To interpret information correctly.  

  • To evaluate one's own thought processes.  

  • To make responsible decisions, even with AI at their side.  

L&D professionals play a key role here: by facilitating training courses like this, they strengthen the mental resilience and agility of teams.  

OHMP.be helps you develop these skills in a powerful and sustainable way.

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Practical?

Price: €295 excluding 21% VAT

Participants : min 5 participants, max 15 participants

Data: upon request


First step?  

Ask yourself today: Am I using AI as a tool, or as a crutch ?”  
The future doesn't demand blind speed, but conscious steps. And those steps begin with a critical mind.  

We're only one click away.

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Critical thinking in a world of AI

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