Measuring critical thinking styles
By understanding how people think, associate director Alexa Lamm hopes to improve how communicators and educators prepare the public to approach challenging issues. The UF Critical Thinking Inventory, scheduled to launch later this year, measures critical thinking styles. Although critical thinking is largely considered an important attribute for success, it is not easily defined.
The questionnaire places respondents on a continuum ranging between an engagement style or seeking information style of critical thinking. Engagers use reason and logic to reach decisions, while those who seek information are more likely to put their opinions aside in favor of consulting with others. In addition to the questionnaire, the UFCTI includes a training program for people to interpret the results and understand how to apply the information to real-life situations. For more information, visit ufcti.com.
Profiting from local produce
Consumers don’t have a standard definition of local food, but Floridians spend about $8 billion each year for fresh produce grown in their area. To help growers take advantage of the local food opportunity, assistant professor Joy Rumble is packaging more than five years of research into educational materials for UF/IFAS Extension. With the information, Extension professionals across the state will show producers how to best connect with audiences and build a personal brand.
When vying for consumers’ attention and business, personal communication and customer service can be farmers’ best tools. With the training, producers will craft messages that appeal to consumers looking to support local growers and economies.
