Duration: 24 Months (2 years)
The Critical Thinking & Problem Solving Program is a modular, competency-based, non-formal education program designed to develop analytical, logical, and decision-making skills applicable in academic, professional, and real-world contexts.
• Total Modules: 96
• Mode: Blended / Face-to-Face / Online
• Structure: Weekly Modular System
• Learning Approach: Outcome-Based Education (OBE)
• Fully aligned with Lithuanian & EU standards
• Progressive learning from basic → advanced → strategic level
• Each module = 1 week
• 5 days per week × 2 hours per day
• Only daily teaching topics (Day 1–Day 5)
This curriculum is aligned with:
• European Qualifications Framework (EQF) – Competency-based level progression
• European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) – Credit-based workload system
• Lithuanian Ministry of Education, Science and Sport – Non-formal adult education guidelines
• EU Key Competences Framework:
o Critical thinking
o Problem solving
o Digital competence
o Personal, social, and learning competence
• Designed under non-formal/professional education category
• No conflict with regulated academic degree programs
• Supports lifelong learning and workforce development
The objectives of this program are to:
1. Strengthen Intermediate Critical Thinking Skills
Develop learners’ ability to analyze complex ideas, evaluate arguments, and apply structured reasoning in diverse contexts.
2. Enhance Applied Problem-Solving Competence
Equip participants with practical tools and frameworks to address real-world problems systematically and effectively.
3. Develop Evidence-Based Decision-Making Skills
Enable learners to gather, interpret, and use relevant data and evidence to make informed and rational decisions.
4. Improve Logical Reasoning and Analytical Abilities
Build deeper understanding of deductive and inductive reasoning, and the ability to identify inconsistencies and fallacies.
5. Promote Systems Thinking and Holistic Analysis
Introduce learners to systems thinking approaches for understanding interconnected problems and environments.
6. Build Risk Awareness and Evaluation Skills
Enhance the ability to identify, assess, and manage risks in decision-making processes.
7. Encourage Collaborative Problem Solving
Develop teamwork, communication, and group decision-making skills for solving complex problems collectively.
8. Foster Creative Thinking and Idea Generation
Strengthen the ability to generate innovative ideas using structured brainstorming and ideation techniques.
9. Enhance Data Interpretation and Analytical Skills
Improve learners’ ability to interpret charts, trends, and basic data for informed analysis.
10. Develop Ethical and Responsible Thinking Practices
Encourage responsible decision-making considering ethical, social, and professional implications.
Upon successful completion of this program, learners will be able to:
1. Demonstrate Expert-Level Critical Thinking
Critically evaluate complex, ambiguous, and multi-layered issues using advanced analytical frameworks and independent judgment.
2. Solve Highly Complex and Interdisciplinary Problems
Apply integrated approaches to solve real-world problems involving multiple variables, stakeholders, and uncertainties.
3. Make Strategic and Data-Driven Decisions
Utilize advanced data analysis, evidence evaluation, and predictive reasoning to make informed strategic decisions.
4. Apply Advanced Logical Reasoning and Argumentation
Construct, analyze, and defend sophisticated arguments with strong logical coherence and evidence-based support.
5. Utilize Systems Thinking in Complex Environments
Analyze dynamic systems, identify interdependencies, and propose sustainable solutions in organizational and societal contexts.
6. Lead Innovation and Creative Problem Solving
Design and implement innovative solutions using design thinking, strategic creativity, and advanced ideation techniques.
7. Conduct Independent Research and Analysis
Design and execute research projects, apply appropriate methodologies, and interpret findings at a professional level.
8. Demonstrate Strategic Leadership and Decision-Making
Lead teams and organizations in decision-making processes, especially under conditions of uncertainty and complexity.
9. Apply Advanced Risk and Crisis Management Skills
Identify, evaluate, and manage risks and crises using structured analytical and strategic approaches.
10. Integrate Ethical, Social, and Global Perspectives
Evaluate decisions considering ethical standards, social responsibility, and global implications.
11. Communicate Complex Ideas Effectively
Present advanced concepts, strategies, and solutions clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
12. Engage in Professional Consulting and Advisory Roles
Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in consulting, advisory, and analytical roles across industries.
13. Develop and Present Strategic Projects and Research Thesis
Complete high-level projects or research demonstrating integrated knowledge, innovation, and analytical rigor.
14. Adapt to Technological and Global Challenges
Apply critical thinking to emerging challenges such as digital transformation, AI, and global uncertainties.
15. Mentor and Facilitate Learning in Others
Guide and support others in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
16. Build a Professional Portfolio of Analytical Work
Develop a portfolio showcasing projects, case analyses, and research outputs.
17. Operate with Professional Integrity and Accountability
Demonstrate high ethical standards, responsibility, and professionalism in all decision-making contexts.
18. Prepare for Advanced Academic, Research, and Leadership Roles
Gain competencies required for higher education, research careers, leadership positions, and global professional environments.
| Module | Topic | Brief Description (Day-wise Lesson Plan) |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | Introduction to Critical Thinking |
• Meaning and importance of critical thinking • Characteristics of a critical thinker • Difference between critical thinking and ordinary thinking • Role of critical thinking in daily life and professional settings • Case examples of critical thinking in real-life situations |
| 02 | Types of Thinking (Analytical, Creative, Reflective) |
• Analytical thinking • Creative thinking • Reflective thinking • Logical thinking • Comparative analysis of different types of thinking |
| 03 | Barriers to Critical Thinking |
• Psychological barriers to thinking • Emotional influences on decision making • Social and cultural barriers • Introduction to cognitive biases • Strategies to overcome thinking barriers |
| 04 | Basics of Logic & Reasoning |
• Introduction to logic and reasoning • Statements, propositions, and truth values • Structure of arguments and conclusions • Valid vs invalid reasoning • Practice exercises on logical reasoning |
| 05 | Argument Structure & Analysis |
• Components of an argument • Identifying premises and conclusions • Evaluating strength of arguments • Techniques for argument analysis • Practical argument evaluation exercises |
| 06 | Identifying Assumptions & Biases |
• Understanding assumptions in thinking • Identifying hidden assumptions • Introduction to cognitive biases • Common types of biases • Bias identification in real-life scenarios |
| 07 | Introduction to Problem Solving Models |
• Concept and importance of problem solving • Types of problems (simple vs complex) • Steps in problem solving • Linear and non-linear approaches • Real-life problem solving examples |
| 08 | Problem Identification Techniques |
• Writing effective problem statements • Tools and techniques for problem identification • Differentiating symptoms and root causes • Practice on real-world problem identification |
| 09 | Root Cause Analysis (Basic) |
• 5 Whys technique • Fishbone (Ishikawa) diagram basics • Identifying root causes vs symptoms • Case-based root cause analysis practice |
| 10 | Decision-Making Fundamentals |
• Introduction to decision making • Types of decision making • Steps in decision-making process • Factors influencing decisions • Practical decision-making exercises |
| 11 | Creative Thinking Techniques |
• Introduction to creative thinking • Brainstorming methods • Mind mapping techniques • Lateral thinking approaches • Creative problem-solving exercises |
| 12 | Review + Case Study + Exam Preparation |
• Review of Modules 1–3 • Review of Modules 4–6 • Review of Modules 7–9 • Review of Modules 10–11 • Full course revision and integrated case study discussion |
| 13 | Advanced Logical Reasoning |
• Advanced concepts in logical reasoning • Structure of complex arguments • Identifying logical patterns • Logical consistency and coherence • Practice on advanced reasoning problems |
| 14 | Deductive vs Inductive Reasoning |
• Introduction to deductive reasoning • Introduction to inductive reasoning • Differences between deductive and inductive reasoning • Strengths and limitations of both approaches • Practical exercises on both reasoning types |
| 15 | Fallacies in Reasoning |
• Introduction to logical fallacies • Common formal fallacies • Common informal fallacies • Identifying fallacies in arguments • Practice with real-life examples of fallacies |
| 16 | Evidence-Based Thinking |
• Concept of evidence-based thinking • Types of evidence • Evaluating credibility of sources • Distinguishing facts from opinions • Applying evidence in decision making |
| 17 | Data Interpretation Basics |
• Introduction to data interpretation • Types of data (qualitative vs quantitative) • Reading charts, graphs, and tables • Identifying patterns and trends • Practice with data interpretation exercises |
| 18 | Problem Framing Techniques |
• Understanding problem framing • Importance of framing in problem solving • Techniques for reframing problems • Narrow vs broad problem framing • Practice on reframing real-world problems |
| 19 | Systems Thinking Introduction |
• Introduction to systems thinking • Components of a system • Interconnections and relationships • Feedback loops (basic) • Applying systems thinking to simple problems |
| 20 | Decision-Making Models |
• Overview of decision-making models • Rational decision-making model • Intuitive decision-making model • Bounded rationality concept • Application of decision models in real scenarios |
| 21 | Risk Analysis Basics |
• Concept risk and uncertainty • Types of risks • Risk identification techniques • Basic risk assessment methods • Practical risk analysis exercises |
| 22 | Brainstorming & Ideation Methods |
• Principles of brainstorming • Structured brainstorming techniques • Individual vs group ideation • SCAMPER and other ideation tools • Practice sessions on idea generation |
| 23 | Group Problem Solving |
• Dynamics of group decision making • Roles in group problem solving • Communication in teams • Conflict management in groups • Group-based problem-solving exercises |
| 24 | Assessment |
• Review of Modules 13–15 • Review of Modules 16–18 • Review of Modules 19–21 • Review of Modules 22–23 • Integrated case study and full revision |
| 25 | Advanced Problem Solving Frameworks |
Overview of advanced problem-solving frameworks Analytical vs intuitive problem-solving approaches Structured problem-solving models (e.g., PDCA, DMAIC) Selecting appropriate frameworks for different problems Case-based application of frameworks |
| 26 | Systems Thinking (Advanced) |
Advanced concepts of systems thinking System dynamics and complexity Feedback loops (reinforcing and balancing) Identifying leverage points in systems Case applications of systems thinking |
| 27 | Complex Problem Analysis |
Understanding complex vs complicated problems Breaking down complex problems Multi-variable analysis techniques Interdependency mapping Real-world complex problem analysis |
| 28 | Strategic Thinking Basics |
Introduction to strategic thinking Long-term vs short-term thinking SWOT analysis fundamentals Strategic decision-making processes Strategic thinking exercises |
| 29 | Business Problem Solving |
Types of business problems Problem-solving in organizational contexts Cost-benefit analysis Decision-making in business environments Business case exercises |
| 30 | Case Study Analysis |
Introduction to case study method Techniques for analyzing case studies Identifying key issues in cases Developing solutions from cases Practice with real-world case studies |
| 31 | Quantitative Reasoning |
Introduction to quantitative reasoning Basic numerical analysis techniques Interpreting quantitative data Logical reasoning with numbers Practice exercises on quantitative problems |
| 32 | Data-Driven Decision Making |
Role of data in decision making Data collection methods Data analysis for decisions Interpreting results and insights Case-based data-driven decisions |
| 33 | Ethical Decision Making |
Principles of ethical decision making Ethical frameworks and models Identifying ethical dilemmas Balancing ethics and outcomes Case studies on ethical decisions |
| 34 | Behavioral Psychology in Thinking |
Introduction to behavioral psychology How behavior influences decisions Heuristics in thinking Biases from psychological perspectives Applications in real-life decision making |
| 35 | Cognitive Biases (Advanced) |
Advanced study of cognitive biases Impact of biases on decision making Bias mitigation techniques Bias in organizations and society Practical bias identification exercises |
| 36 | Research Methods |
Introduction to research methodology Qualitative vs quantitative research Research design basics Data collection techniques Ethical considerations in research |
| 37 | Hypothesis Testing |
Concept hypothesis and variables Formulating hypotheses Basics of hypothesis testing Interpreting test results Practice exercises |
| 38 | Scenario Planning |
Introduction to scenario planning Identifying future uncertainties Building alternative scenarios Evaluating potential outcomes Scenario-based decision exercises |
| 39 | Innovation & Design Thinking |
Introduction to design thinking Stages of design thinking process Empathy and user-centered design Prototyping and testing ideas Innovation exercises |
| 40 | Conflict Resolution Techniques |
Types of conflicts Causes of conflict Conflict resolution strategies Negotiation basics Role-play and practical exercises |
| 41 | Negotiation & Decision Strategy |
Principles of negotiation Negotiation styles and tactics Decision-making during negotiation Win-win strategies Practical negotiation exercises |
| 42 | Leadership & Decision Making |
Role of leadership in decision making Leadership styles Decision-making under pressure Group leadership challenges Leadership case studies |
| 43 | Critical Writing & Argumentation |
Structure of critical writing Developing arguments in writing Supporting arguments with evidence Evaluating written arguments Writing practice exercises |
| 44 | Presentation & Persuasion Skills |
Principles of effective presentation Structuring persuasive arguments Verbal and non-verbal communication Audience analysis Presentation practice |
| 45 | Real-world Problem Lab |
Identifying real-world problems Applying learned frameworks Group-based problem solving Solution development Presentation of solutions |
| 46 | Industry Case Analysis |
Industry-specific problem identification Analyzing business and social cases Applying analytical tools Developing practical solutions Case presentation and feedback |
| 47 | Capstone Project (Part 1) |
Project topic selection Problem definition and scope Literature review basics Research planning Initial project development |
| 48 | Final Diploma Assessment |
Review of Modules 25–30 Review of Modules 31–36 Review of Modules 37–42 Review of Modules 43–47 Final assessment and project submission |
| 49 | Advanced Analytical Models |
Overview of advanced analytical models Comparative analysis techniques Multi-criteria decision analysis Analytical model selection strategies Case-based analytical applications |
| 50 | Policy Analysis & Evaluation |
Introduction to policy analysis Policy design and formulation Evaluation frameworks Impact assessment techniques Case studies in policy evaluation |
| 51 | Global Problem Solving |
Nature of global challenges Cross-border problem analysis International case studies Global decision-making frameworks Solutions to global issues |
| 52 | Interdisciplinary Thinking |
Concept interdisciplinary thinking Integrating multiple disciplines Cross-domain problem solving Systems integration techniques Practical interdisciplinary cases |
| 53 | Advanced Research Design |
Research design frameworks Experimental vs non-experimental design Sampling techniques Validity and reliability Research design practice |
| 54 | Statistical Thinking |
Concepts of statistical thinking Descriptive statistics overview Probability basics Interpreting statistical results Practical statistical exercises |
| 55 | Predictive Analysis Basics |
Introduction to predictive analysis Forecasting techniques Trend analysis Predictive modeling concepts Case applications |
| 56 | Decision Science |
Foundations of decision science Decision theory models Utility and preferences Decision trees Applications in real scenarios |
| 57 | Behavioral Economics |
Principles of behavioral economics Decision-making under uncertainty Biases in economic decisions Nudging concepts Case-based analysis |
| 58 | Strategic Risk Management |
Risk management frameworks Identifying strategic risks Risk mitigation strategies Monitoring and control Practical risk scenarios |
| 59 | Crisis Management |
Concept crisis and uncertainty Crisis response strategies Decision-making under pressure Communication in crisis Case-based crisis simulations |
| 60 | Innovation Strategy |
Innovation management concepts Strategic innovation planning Disruptive innovation Innovation ecosystems Case studies |
| 61 | Entrepreneurship & Problem Solving |
Entrepreneurial thinking Identifying business opportunities Problem-solution fit Startup decision making Business case exercises |
| 62 | Consulting Frameworks |
Introduction to consulting models Problem structuring in consulting Client analysis techniques Solution development Consulting case practice |
| 63 | Organizational Decision Making |
Decision-making in organizations Organizational behavior influence Group decision processes Strategic alignment Case analysis |
| 64 | Change Management |
Principles of change management Managing organizational change Resistance to change Change strategies Case applications |
| 65 | Artificial Intelligence & Decision Making |
Role of AI in decision making Data-driven intelligence systems Ethical issues in AI AI applications in problem solving Case discussions |
| 66 | Data Ethics & Governance |
Data ethics principles Privacy and data protection Governance frameworks Ethical decision making in data use Case analysis |
| 67 | Complex Systems Modeling |
Modeling complex systems Simulation techniques System mapping Dynamic modeling concepts Practical modeling exercises |
| 68 | Advanced Negotiation |
Advanced negotiation strategies Power dynamics in negotiation Multi-party negotiation Conflict resolution integration Role-play exercises |
| 69 | Cross-Cultural Decision Making |
Cultural influences on decisions Global communication challenges Cultural frameworks Decision-making in diverse environments Case studies |
| 70 | Leadership Psychology |
Psychology of leadership Decision-making behavior of leaders Motivation and influence Leadership challenges Case-based discussions |
| 71 | Public Policy & Ethics |
Ethics in public policy Policy decision frameworks Social responsibility Governance challenges Case analysis |
| 72 | Sustainability Problem Solving |
Concept sustainability Environmental and social challenges Sustainable decision-making Long-term impact analysis Case-based exercises |
| 73 | Digital Transformation Challenges |
Digital transformation concepts Organizational challenges Technology-driven decisions Risk and opportunity analysis Case studies |
| 74 | Project-Based Problem Solving |
Project design and planning Problem solving in projects Resource management Monitoring and evaluation Practical project exercises |
| 75 | Real-world Consulting Simulation |
Consulting problem identification Client interaction simulation Solution development Presentation of recommendations Feedback and evaluation |
| 76 | Advanced Case Studies |
Complex case analysis Multi-layered problem solving Cross-sector case studies Solution comparison Case presentations |
| 77 | Research Thesis (Part 1) |
Topic selection Research proposal development Literature review Problem formulation Research planning |
| 78 | Research Thesis (Part 2) |
Data collection methods Fieldwork preparation Data organization Preliminary analysis Progress review |
| 79 | Research Thesis (Part 3) |
Data analysis techniques Interpretation of findings Linking theory and practice Draft writing Supervisor feedback |
| 80 | Research Thesis (Final Submission) |
Finalizing research report Editing and formatting Referencing and citation Submission preparation Pre-defense review |
| 81 | Teaching & Mentoring Skills |
Principles of teaching and mentoring Learning facilitation techniques Feedback methods Coaching approaches Practice sessions |
| 82 | Professional Practice & Ethics |
Professional standards Ethical frameworks Workplace decision making Accountability and integrity Case discussions |
| 83 | Analytical Writing (Advanced) |
Advanced writing structure Argument development Evidence integration Academic writing standards Writing exercises |
| 84 | Decision Labs |
Applied decision-making exercises Scenario-based decisions Real-time analysis Feedback sessions Reflection activities |
| 85 | Innovation Labs |
Idea generation workshops Prototype development Testing and iteration Innovation challenges Group exercises |
| 86 | Leadership Labs |
Leadership simulations Decision-making under pressure Team leadership exercises Performance feedback Reflection sessions |
| 87 | Industry Internship / Simulation |
Industry exposure Problem identification Practical application Reporting and reflection Supervisor evaluation |
| 88 | Portfolio Development |
Portfolio design Selecting work samples Documentation techniques Presentation of portfolio Review and improvement |
| 89 | Global Case Review |
International case studies Comparative analysis Cross-border problem solving Discussion and evaluation Case presentations |
| 90 | Policy Simulation Exercise |
Policy simulation design Stakeholder analysis Decision-making scenarios Policy evaluation Simulation feedback |
| 91 | Final Strategic Project |
Project planning Strategic analysis Solution development Implementation plan Project presentation |
| 92 | Viva Preparation |
Presentation skills refinement Defense strategies Question handling techniques Mock presentations Feedback sessions |
| 93 | Comprehensive Review |
Review of Modules 49–60 Review of Modules 61–72 Review of Modules 73–84 Review of Modules 85–91 Final revision exercises |
| 94 | Mock Defense |
Mock viva sessions Panel questioning Presentation delivery Evaluation feedback Improvement planning |
| 95 | Final Evaluation |
Final written assessment Project evaluation Performance review Competency assessment Final feedback |
| 96 | Program Completion & Certification |
Program reflection Portfolio finalization Career preparation Certification process Graduation briefing |