Thinking Critically in Engineering

The classes I have taken within the field of engineering promote and teach critical thinking more so than do classes in other subjects. Mechanical engineering classes cater well to the development of critical thinking skills as the classes are heavily based in problem solving situations. In solving given problems or accomplishing assigned tasks, students are inherently demonstrating aspects of the critical thinking process. In having students problem-solve, engineering classes lead students to ask and, in turn, answer several questions that embody the critical thinking process;

What exactly is the end result I am trying to achieve?

What are the possible means of achieving this result (or parts of it)?

Of these means, which can I employ practically and efficiently?

By facing students with tasks and challenges relevant to the field, the engineering program does a good job of fostering the growth of critical thinking skills in its students.