Habits of Mind – Thinking Flexibly

Liberal Studies students are defined not just by what they know, but by their very character. They think critically, creatively, and independently. When problem solving, they consider various points of view, apply new data to what they already know and are willing to abandon incorrect conclusions. They are flexible thinkers!
This module’s slide presentation, “Seeking Inspiration” gives you three examples of liberal (flexible) thinkers: Da Vinci, Rogers and Lucas. Your task here is to build and present a case for how a particular person—of your own choosing—is a flexible thinker. Your chosen person could be from the past or present and can either be a known figure (with the exception of those already presented in this module) or someone from your own life.
First, Review the “Thinking Flexibly” section in Dr. Costa’s summary of “The Habits of MindActions .”

Second, write a brief paragraph (100-150 words) describing the person you’ve selected. Please include the following information in your essay:
The person’s name and his/her birth year and death year (if applicable).
Identify specific areas of knowledge this person has been involved with and include significant accomplishments for each area.
Explain why you consider this person a flexible/liberal thinker by providing examples of how he/she arrives at solutions to problems or situations using strategies Costa discusses in the portion of the Habits of Mind essay under “Thinking Flexibly.”
Be sure to include a citation if you have used information from an electronic or print source.