Sponge Method vs. Panning-for-Gold Approach free essay sample

Written Assignment #1 Reacting with what you hear and read through systematic evaluation is the skill of critical thinking. The ability to ask and answer a series of critical questions consists of this. There are three approaches to listening and reading that deal with critical thinking. These three approaches are the sponge approach, the panning for gold approach, and the filter approach. The sponge method is reacting like a sponge would do with water; to absorb it. There are a few advantages to this approach. A sponge method is a passive approach that does not require strenuous mental effort. The sponge methods primary effort involves concentration and memory. The sponge method is also relatively a quick and easy process. Along with advantages are disadvantages. A disadvantage of the sponge method is that it doesn’t provide a means for deciding which information and opinions you should believe and which you should reject. We will write a custom essay sample on Sponge Method vs. Panning-for-Gold Approach or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page A common trend with the sponge method, which is a disadvantage, is that people who rely on the sponge method tend to believe whatever they last read. The panning for gold approach is an interactive approach. It can clarify important omissions through logical steps or procedures. The panning for gold approach separates what is useful or valuable from what is worthless. Using the panning for the gold approach you must continue to frequently question the outcome as part of the process to critically evaluate and make better informed decisions. â€Å"The process of panning for gold provides a model for active readers and listeners as they try to determine the worth of what they read and hear. You have to ask frequent question and reflect on the answers to distinguish the gold from the gravel in a conversation. â€Å"The sponge approach emphasizes knowledge acquisition; the panning-for-gold approach stresses active interaction with knowledge as it is being acquired. † With the sponge approach a person might read sentences more carefully and try to remember every word where a panning for gold approach requires that the reader uncovers the best available decisions or beliefs instead of just believing what is written.A third approach that is commonly used is the filter approach. This approach is an interactional approach with a speaker or writer. The actions of the hearer and reader are emphasized by the term filter in seeking to find the essential elements, in separating out impurities, and in determining the worth of the elements. Asking questions and thinking about material are the emphasis of the filter approach. The filter approach stresses the process of interaction with knowledge, where the sponge approach emphasizes knowledge acquisition. In my opinion I would prefer the panning for gold approach. The filter approach is similar, but trying to find information instead of filtering it in my opinion is more effective. With the sponge approach you are just absorbing information and trying to retain what you last read. When you use the panning for gold approach you are actually trying to find the answer. This is a much more effective method especially with time constraints. No matter which approach is used there is a certain method for everyone.