DESCRIBING HABITS OF MIND
When we no longer know what to do we have come to our real work and when
we no longer know which way to go we have begun our real journey. The mind
that is not baffled is not employed. The impeded stream is the one that sings.
Wendell Berry
What behaviors are indicative of the efficient, effective problem solver? Just what do human
beings do when they behave intelligently? Research in effective thinking and intelligent behavior
by Feuerstein (1980), Glatthorn and Baron (1985), Sternberg (1985), Perkins (1985), and Ennis
(1985) indicates that there are some identifiable characteristics of effective thinkers. These are
not necessarily scientists, artists, mathematicians or the wealthy who demonstrate these
behaviors. These characteristics have been identified in successful mechanics, teachers,
entrepreneurs, salespeople, and parents—people in all walks of life.