Accounting and Auditing Research and Databases: Practitioner's Desk Reference

Critical Thinking and Effective Communication

The researcher needs to know “how to think.” That is, he or she must identify the problem or issue, gather the relevant facts, analyze the issue(s), synthesize and evaluate alternatives, develop an appropriate solution, and effectively communicate the desired information. Such skills are essential for the professional accountant in providing services in today's complex, dynamic, and changing profession. In this environment, the professional accountant must possess not only the ability to think critically, which includes the ability to understand a variety of contexts and circumstances, but also apply and adapt various accounting, auditing, tax, and business concepts and principles to these circumstances to develop the best solutions. The development and nurturing of critical thinking skills will also contribute to the process of lifelong learning that is needed for today's professional.

Accountants must master critical thinking skills particularly because business organizations continue to evolve in response to new information technology and greater worldwide competition. Descriptions of critical thinking are summarized as follows:

1. Critical thinking is difficult because it is often complex.

2. Critical thinking applies multiple criteria.

3. Critical thinking requires an ability to tolerate ambiguity and uncertainty.

4. Critical thinking involves self-regulation of the thinking process.

5. Critical thinking may impose meaning ...