Thinking Smart - You Are How You Think

Applying The Theory Of Constraints In Developing Thinking Skills
BY KHAW CHOON EAN


EVEN though this thinking guide can be read by anyone, regardless of
age, I believe it is primarily aimed at schoolchildren. Thinking has long
been considered a skill that is generally ignored by a large section of
society.
Anyone who has a tertiary education believes that he can think for
himself.
Unfortunately, that is not the case, otherwise society will not be beset by so many common problems that could have been solved with some common sense and a little bit of critical thinking.
Thus, it is apt that writer Khaw Choon Ean has taken upon herself to render unto a permanent form, her thoughts and experience with this Theory of Constraints. The moment an individual reaches the age of reason, problems whether perceived or real will begin to set in. Hence, there will always be problems pertaining to various aspects of life as we move through the various passages of life.
How we handle these problems will determine our level of self-confidence and maturity in adulthood. In this book, defining problems, making the right decisions and accepting responsibility are discussed openly and realistically.
The thinking tools applied in the context of teaching and learning are called the Cloud, the Branch and the Ambitious Target Tree. The discerning reader will realise after a while that there's a similarity between the tools used and mind-mapping as created by mind-master Tony Buzan.
However, the Theory of Constraints for Education has been tailor-made for schools since 2001. Today, the tools are being used in the teaching of civics education and social science subjects.
Writer Khaw, who is also an educationist and a trainer in sports, has used innovative ways to make her ideas clear to all concerned. She uses simple charts and diagrams to shed light on subjects that can sometimes become complicated issues.
Part of this TOC process involves total understanding of the subject matter and putting forth your thoughts in a logical manner. Hence, actions and ideas have to be explored thoroughly so as to envision the consequences of wrong decisions.
In the whole scheme of things, students who wish to make full use of the Theory of Constraints have to execute systemically and strategically their plans of action.
On first reading, the book may be perceived to be rather quite simple in its approach to the subject, but then thinking is always a simple process if you know all the rules of clear thinking.
Khaw has done a fine job of illustrating her ideas of thinking out-of-the-box and developing win-win solutions in a systematic manner.
The writer has had a long career in the field of education. Her experience in education began with the years in Universiti Sains Malaysia where she had exhibited enormous talents in various fields.
This book is but one of her many achievements in the field of education.
That she is dedicated and immensely creative is without a doubt. With this book, she has made another significant contribution to the development of young children in this country.
Parents who are concerned over their children's education should take a closer look at this book and its relevance to the maturity of young adults in their own homes.