1.1 Critical evaluation in everyday life transcript

Here are three everyday uses of critical evaluation.

Choosing a book

You’re at the library, looking for a book to read on the tram. You find a few books you’re interested in, but you only want to leave with one. You’ve chosen genres and authors you like, read the synopses on the back covers and some online reviews. You don’t want a physically heavy book since you’ll have to carry it in your bag, and you don’t want anything sad because you don’t want to cry on public transport. When it comes to picking just one, you weigh all these factors and choose the most appropriate book.

Buying a new mobile phone

You looked at multiple devices and considered the price and features. You ended up with two options: a cheaper phone with fewer features, or one a bit more expensive but with longer battery life and more features. You weighed the pros and cons of each option, considered what was more important to you, and decided based on the information you had. This was a critical evaluation!

Seeing through jokes and lies

You’re telling your friend about a musician that you love. Your friend says, “I’m actually related to him, you know?” Before your jaw drops and you start asking them to introduce you, you consider the evidence that this is true. The musician is from the UK and your friend was born in Australia. They’ve never mentioned any family overseas and have never been to the UK. You’ve also spoken about this music genre many times, and they’ve never mentioned a connection to this artist. Your friend also looks like they’re going to start laughing. Having evaluated the evidence – you know they’re being cheeky and trying to fool you.