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"No sooner do we come into this world than bits of us start to drop off." -- Gustave Flaubert
Characteristics of Critical Readers
Efficient reading depends on the ability to think critically. Many experts argue that active reading is the same as critical thinking.
You read with your brain, not with your eyes; reading is a thinking activity. When we speak specifically of reading critically, we are emphasizing the important role of evaluating or judging ideas, not just passively taking them in.
Critical readers understand the facts, grasp a deeper understanding of the ideas that connect to the details, evaluate the ideas, and form intelligent opinions. Following are some of the important characteristics of critical readers:
- Critical readers are willing to spend time reflecting on the ideas presented in their reading assignments. They know the time is well-spent to enhance their understanding.
- Critical readers are able to raise questions while reading. They evaluate and solve problems rather than merely compile a set of facts to be memorized.
- Critical readers can think logically. They are fact-oriented and can review the facts dispassionately. They base their judgments on ideas and evidence.
- Critical readers can recognize error in thought and persuasion as well as recognize good arguments.
- Critical readers are skeptical. They understand that not everything in print is right. They are diligent in seeking out the truth.
- Critical readers are open-minded. They seek alternative views and are open to new ideas that may not necessarily agree with their previous thoughts on a topic. They are willing to reassess their views when new or discordant evidence is introduced and evaluated.
- Critical readers are in touch with their own personal thoughts and ideas about a topic. They are eager to express their thoughts and opinions. They are excited about learning.
- Critical readers are able to identify arguments and issues. They are able to ask penetrating and thought-provoking questions to evaluate ideas.
- Critical readers are creative. They see connections between topics and use knowledge from other disciplines to enhance their reading and learning experiences.
- Critical readers are willing to take a critical stance on issues.
Sources:
Schumm, J.S. & Post, S.A. (1997). Executive Learning: Successful Strategies for College Reading and Studying. Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Prentice Hall.
Seyler, D. U. (1997). The Reading Context: Developing College Reading Skills. Boston: Allyn & Bacon
(Thanks to C. Crum for use of this handout)