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Critical thinking in the age of big data and AI

Badawi, Tala LU ; Axsäter, Elias LU and Forsmark, Ruben LU (2025) FEKH38 20242
Department of Business Administration
Abstract (Swedish)
This study examines the relationship between critical thinking and the use of Big Data Analytics (BDA) in decision-making among white-collar professionals. It focuses on three key
areas: the influence of BDA reliance on critical thinking, the connection between professional experience and cognitive reasoning, and the demands of strategic decision-making compared to tactical and operational roles. A quantitative approach was used, combining a structured survey
and the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal to gather data from a targeted sample of professionals. The survey assessed the perception and use of BDA of these professional
demographics, while the Watson-Glaser test measured participants’ critical thinking abilities.

The... (More)
This study examines the relationship between critical thinking and the use of Big Data Analytics (BDA) in decision-making among white-collar professionals. It focuses on three key
areas: the influence of BDA reliance on critical thinking, the connection between professional experience and cognitive reasoning, and the demands of strategic decision-making compared to tactical and operational roles. A quantitative approach was used, combining a structured survey
and the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal to gather data from a targeted sample of professionals. The survey assessed the perception and use of BDA of these professional
demographics, while the Watson-Glaser test measured participants’ critical thinking abilities.

The analysis employed regression and ANOV A to test hypotheses and identify significant trends. Results reveal that while BDA reliance can enhance decision-making processes, over-dependence on data tools may limit cognitive reasoning. Professional experience was shown to play a critical role in developing critical thinking, with experienced professionals
demonstrating stronger cognitive abilities. Strategic decision-making was found to place higher demands on critical thinking compared to tactical and operational decisions. This research
highlights the importance of balancing data-driven tools with critical thinking skills in organizational decision-making. It offers valuable insights for professionals and organizations looking to integrate BDA effectively while fostering cognitive reasoning. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions about the interaction between human cognition and technology in professional environments, offering a foundation for future research in decision-making and organizational behavior. (Less)
Please use this url to cite or link to this publication:
author
Badawi, Tala LU ; Axsäter, Elias LU and Forsmark, Ruben LU
supervisor
organization
course
FEKH38 20242
year
type
M2 - Bachelor Degree
subject
keywords
Big Data Analytics (BDA), Critical Thinking, Professional Experience, Quantitative Research, Decision-Making, Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal
language
English
id
9184554
date added to LUP
2025-02-11 13:47:32
date last changed
2025-02-11 13:47:32
@misc{9184554,
  abstract     = {{This study examines the relationship between critical thinking and the use of Big Data Analytics (BDA) in decision-making among white-collar professionals. It focuses on three key
areas: the influence of BDA reliance on critical thinking, the connection between professional experience and cognitive reasoning, and the demands of strategic decision-making compared to tactical and operational roles. A quantitative approach was used, combining a structured survey
and the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal to gather data from a targeted sample of professionals. The survey assessed the perception and use of BDA of these professional
demographics, while the Watson-Glaser test measured participants’ critical thinking abilities.

The analysis employed regression and ANOV A to test hypotheses and identify significant trends. Results reveal that while BDA reliance can enhance decision-making processes, over-dependence on data tools may limit cognitive reasoning. Professional experience was shown to play a critical role in developing critical thinking, with experienced professionals
demonstrating stronger cognitive abilities. Strategic decision-making was found to place higher demands on critical thinking compared to tactical and operational decisions. This research
highlights the importance of balancing data-driven tools with critical thinking skills in organizational decision-making. It offers valuable insights for professionals and organizations looking to integrate BDA effectively while fostering cognitive reasoning. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions about the interaction between human cognition and technology in professional environments, offering a foundation for future research in decision-making and organizational behavior.}},
  author       = {{Badawi, Tala and Axsäter, Elias and Forsmark, Ruben}},
  language     = {{eng}},
  note         = {{Student Paper}},
  title        = {{Critical thinking in the age of big data and AI}},
  year         = {{2025}},
}