California Critical Thinking Skills Test Research Articles

Comparative analysis of critical thinking skills between ChatGPT and college students

This study employed a questionnaire survey using the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST) on a sample of 240 Chinese university students. The results obtained were then compared with 240 questionnaire results created by ChatGPT in order to investigate variations in critical thinking skills across different dimensions. The study uncovered that, although ChatGPT had exceptional performance in inference and deductive reasoning, it fell behind university students in the areas of evaluation and inductive reasoning. Meanwhile, with respect to analysis, the capabilities of both college students and ChatGPT were not significantly different. These findings provide essential insights for the advancement of artificial intelligence and human progress.

Developing a Chinese Language Course Integrating Deep Learning Theory and OBE: Promote Critical Thinking Skill for Undergraduate Students in Guangzhou, China

This study aims to develop and evaluate a Chinese language course designed to enhance college students' critical thinking skills through the integration of deep learning theory and Outcome-Based Education (OBE). The research specifically addresses two questions: (1) What are the characteristics of a Chinese language course that integrates Deep Learning Theory and OBE? (2) What are the effects of this course on promoting critical thinking skills among undergraduate students? The study employs a quasi-experimental design, involving 120 undergraduate students divided into a control group and a test group from Nan fang College, Guangzhou, China. The control group received conventional teaching methods, while the test group participated in the newly developed course. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests using California critical thinking skills test (Chinese version), as well as semi-structured interviews. Results indicate a significant improvement in the critical thinking skills of students in the test group compared to the control group. The test group showed higher mean scores and lower standard deviations in post-test results, demonstrating the effectiveness of the course in enhancing critical thinking abilities. Qualitative data from interviews supported these findings, highlighting increased student engagement and deeper understanding of course materials. The findings suggest that this integrated approach can be effectively implemented in other educational contexts to achieve similar outcomes.

The influence of using instagram on EFL learners’ critical thinking in language institutes

This study examined the influence of using Instagram on EFL learners’ critical thinking in language institutes. The participants were 98 students (40 males and 58 females) studying English at three branches of a language institute in Iran who were 20–24 years old and shared the same L1 which was Persian. They were selected through purposive sampling. Their proficiency in English was checked by administering DIALANG. Based on their scores on DIALANG, two equal groups were formed as experimental and control. As the pretest, California Critical Thinking Skills Test and California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory were utilised. Afterward, the experimental group were taught in class and via Instagram, while the control group were taught only in class without using Instagram. The treatment lasted for 12 weeks each week for two sessions each session for 2 h. Then the posttest, which included administering California Critical Thinking Skills Test and California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory was administered. The two groups got nearly the same scores on the pretest which showed their same proficiency level, but, their performances on the posttest were significantly different and the experimental group performed much better than the control group. This study may have implications for teacher trainers, supervisors, teachers, and textbook writers.

Structured diary introspection training: A kind of critical thinking training method can enhance the Pro-C creativity of interior designers

Pro-C creativity refers to professional creativity, which plays a key role in designing novel and practical works for designers in practical work. In order to verify the significance of critical thinking and Pro-C creativity and explore how to improve Pro-C creativity through critical thinking training, we carried out two studies. In Study 1, we recruited 58 designers using a longitudinal research approach and employed the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST) and the California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory (CCTDI) to measure designers' critical thinking. Designers were tasked with completing assignments related to Pro-C level of creativity A, and their creativity was assessed by experts. Through a one-year follow-up analysis, we examined how their critical thinking influenced Pro-C creativity in the design domain. The results of the cross-lagged analysis indicate that scores on critical thinking positively predicted the creativity levels of designers one year later. Study 2 is a controlled intervention study. We developed an intervention program for training critical thinking, named the "Structured diary introspection Training Method", which is based on the online technique. Through a 21-day critical thinking training intervention, the results of repeated measures analysis of variance showed that, compared to the control group, designers in the intervention group scored significantly higher in a creative task related to designing a living room. Our findings support critical thinking as an important predictor of Pro-C creativity in the real world and provide a feasible training program for those who need to improve their Pro-C creativity.

Exploring the Impact of Teacher Role Changes in the Flipped Classroom Model on the Critical Thinking Abilities of University Students

This study investigates the impact of teacher role changes within the flipped classroom model on the critical thinking abilities of Canadian university students. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study combines quantitative data from pre- and post-tests using the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST) with qualitative insights from student and teacher interviews. The quantitative analysis revealed statistically significant improvements in students’ critical thinking abilities in flipped classroom settings, particularly in analysis, inference, and evaluation skills, indicating a medium to large effect size (η² = 0.111). Qualitative findings underscore the importance of increased student engagement, enhanced learning environments, the value of collaborative learning, and the pivotal role of teacher support and feedback in facilitating critical thinking development. Integrating these findings, the study offers a multifaceted view of how strategic pedagogical shifts—specifically, adopting more facilitative and supportive roles by teachers—can significantly enhance critical thinking in higher education. This research contributes to the literature on educational strategies, advocating for the broader adoption of flipped classroom models as a means to foster active, student-centered learning and critical thinking skills.

Evaluation of Critical Thinking Skills in Medical Students of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences

Background: According to the 21st Century Partnership Learning Framework, several competencies or skills should be possessed regarding critical thinking and problem-solving, communication and collaboration skills, creative and updating skills, information and communication technology literacy skills, contextual learning skills, and information and media literacy skills. Increasing critical thinking skills is necessary in modern and advanced educational systems. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the critical thinking skills of medical students. Methods: This descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 271 medical students in the primary science section of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Iran, in 2023 who were selected by a convenient sampling method. The data were collected by demographic characteristics and the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST). Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to analyze the data using SPSS software version 21. Results: The total critical thinking skills score in the studied students was 8.89 ± 3.60, equivalent to 25% of the total score. The highest and lowest areas were related to comparative reasoning and inference, with an average of 4.35 ± 1.94 and 2.59 ± 1.56, respectively. There was no significant difference between the average critical thinking skills score regarding age, gender, academic semesters, and living or not in a dormitory. Conclusions: Based on the results, medical students’ critical thinking skills are weak and lower than the exam average. The educational system of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences should be reviewed in designing a curriculum to foster critical thinking.

Effect of WebQuest-based education on critical thinking and academic self-efficacy of midwifery students: Study protocol of a randomized, controlled crossover trial

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Critical thinking fills the gap between theoretical and clinical teaching and increases the power of clinical decision-making. WebQuest is an innovative, learner-centered, and effort-driven learning approach that uses computer technology to engage and motivate learners. In WebQuest, learners are compelled to use the latest information available on the web as a tool to promote higher levels of thinking. However, we did not find a study that used WebQuest to improve students' critical thinking and academic self-efficacy. The aim of this study will be to investigate the effect of WebQuest-based education on the critical thinking of midwifery students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This superiority randomized, controlled crossover trial will be carried out among fifth-semester undergraduate midwifery students. Participants will be allocated to one of two event groups (A and B) using block randomization. In the first sequence (FS) (four weeks) of study, both groups will simultaneously attend two different education groups (WebQuest and traditional). During the FS, WebQuest will be used to teach group A participants, while group B participants will be treated as the control group (CG) and be taught using a traditional presentation. In the second sequence (SS), the interventions will be crossed over. Participants in both groups will complete the sociodemographic questionnaire, the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST), the California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory (CCTDI), and the Academic Self-Efficacy Beliefs Questionnaire (ASEBQ) once before the first sequence of the study, during the washout period, and at the end of the second sequence of the study. The teaching satisfaction questionnaire will be completed at the end of the study. DISCUSSION: The results of this study can be used as a basis for teaching midwifery students using WebQuest as a new teaching method.

A Comparative Study on Critical Thinking Skills of ISEC and Non-ISEC Teachers in Institutions of Higher Education in the North of China

Viewed as one of the essential skills needed to succeed in the 21st Century, advancing student's critical thinking (CT) is a significant focus in higher education. This study utilized a non-experimental causal-comparative methodology with an explanatory mixed methods research design. The purpose of this study was to explore the status quo (current situation) of Chinese teachers’ (including ISEC and non-ISEC teachers) CT, as well as the perception, attitude, and practice of CT among them in institutions of higher education in the north of China. There were 102 participants took the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST). The results from the quantitative research showed the CT skills of Chinese teachers fell in the upper range of moderate level. There were no significant differences or relationships in CT skills for ISEC and non-ISEC teachers based on the variables: gender, professional rank, educational background, discipline taught, age, and years of teaching. Twelve participants were interviewed. The core phenomenon or theory emerged from the qualitative data: Chinese teachers advocated and supported CT instruction, but they had a varied and fragmented perception about CT. Although they held a positive attitude towards CT and CT instruction, they applied limited CT teaching strategies in their practice. All participants displayed a strong desire to participate in CT training programs. The findings from the qualitative paradigm supported, complemented, and deepened the findings from the quantitative paradigm.

Strategies of Content Knowledge Representation and EFL Learners‘ English Writing Proficiency: Mediating Role of Critical Thinking Skills

The exploration of optimizing content knowledge representation and enhancing critical thinking capabilities in English as Foreign Language (EFL) learners’ writing still needs to be improved. Cultivating adept critical thinking skills and effective content knowledge representation is paramount for EFL learners, given its correlation with heightened writing proficiency. This study sought to examine critical thinking skills as a mediator in the correlation between strategies of content knowledge representation and writing proficiency among EFL learners. A total of 360 English as foreign language participants engaged in the California Critical Thinking Skills Test and responded to a questionnaire on strategies of content knowledge representation conducted at Kaifeng Science Technology and Communication College, China. Subsequently, participants undertook a writing task, and the outcomes underwent analysis using SPSS 26.0, incorporating descriptive analysis, correlational analysis, and AMOS 24.0 for mediating analysis. The findings unveiled a correlation between critical thinking skills and EFL learners’ writing proficiency, echoing the association observed between content knowledge representation strategies and writing proficiency. Furthermore, critical thinking skills were identified as a mediator, linking content knowledge representation strategies to writing proficiency among EFL learners. The combination of content knowledge representation and critical thinking skills emerged as a positive role in the writing process. This research underscored the paramount significance of critical thinking skills within a specialized discipline, highlighting their transformative potential for EFL learners’ writing competency and accentuating their functions in the broader writing pedagogy.

A critical issue: assessing the critical thinking skills and dispositions of undergraduate health science students

Critical thinking skills and dispositions are significantly important factors that aid in one’s ability to understand and solve complex problems. Within the field of higher education, critical thinking skills and dispositions are valued and encouraged but are not always fully developed at the completion of the undergraduate degree experience. Those students who are studying to enter the healthcare field are particularly in need of strong critical thinking skills and dispositions in order to provide patients and communities with effective, evidence-based care in the midst of an ever-increasingly complex environment. What program of study a student selects, and the unique curriculum design of that program, may impact the development of these skills and dispositions during undergraduate study. This quantitative study sought to explore and understand the critical thinking skills and dispositions of undergraduate students enrolled in a BS in Health Science (BSHS) degree program, and how these skills in particular compared to the national student population. During the Spring 2022 academic semester, 140 senior-level BSHS students were given the opportunity to complete the California Critical Thinking Skills Test and the California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory. Results show less development in critical thinking skills when compared to the national student population, with Numeracy skills being the most poorly developed, and Truth-Seeking being the most inconsistent disposition possessed by the student participants. The implications of these findings, particularly for faculty who teach students planning to enter the healthcare field, are offered, including recommendations for curricular design and modification.

Scales used to evaluate critical thinking in nursing graduation

Objective: To analyze the scales used to measure critical thinking in undergraduate nursing students.Methods: Scoping review guided by Joanna Briggs Institute recommendations. Search carried out in November/2021 in five databases and two libraries. Descriptive data analysis.Results: Final sample had 57 articles. 91% (n = 53) adopted a validated scale to measure critical thinking in nursing students, and 9% (n = 4) combined two of them. California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory, California Critical Thinking Skills Test, and Health Science Reasoning Test were the most used scales. Studies with beginners prevailed, and there were several contexts and research themes. Simulation and concept mapping were the most evaluated teaching strategies, and 59.6% (n = 34) identified an increase in critical thinking after the intervention.Conclusions: Nursing managers and educators have 17 validated scales available to measure critical thinking, a fundamental element of clinical practice.

Investigating the Effectiveness of Peer Feedback in Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Undergraduate Students

The purpose of this research was to determine whether or not undergraduates benefitted from receiving input from their peers when it came to the development of their critical thinking skills. A total of 60 freshmen taking an introductory philosophy course at a major public university in the United States served as the study's sample for a pre-test, post-test control group design. Students in the experimental group had their critical thinking tasks reviewed by their peers, while those in the control group did not. Changes in critical thinking were measured using the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST). The results of the CCTST showed that the experimental group had significantly higher levels of critical thinking than the control group. This result demonstrates the potential of peer feedback as an instructional strategy for fostering critical thinking in undergraduates. Student access to chances for group study is also highlighted. These results have substantial repercussions for classroom practice. Peer feedback is a useful tool for teachers to help their pupils develop the critical thinking skills necessary for success in school and the workplace. Important social and cognitive skills, such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, can be fostered in students through collaborative learning tasks.

Evaluating and comparing critical thinking skills of residents of Tehran University of Medical Sciences

BackgroundToday’s complexities and diversity in the clinical setting have revealed the need to pay attention to strengthening critical thinking (CT) skills. The present study aimed to evaluate and compare CT skills in the residents of the Tehran University of Medical Sciences.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study. The study's statistical population included 284 residents in orthopedic, internal medicine, and surgery groups studying in the PGY1 to PGY4 years of residency. The data collection tool was the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST) form B. The collected data were entered into SPSS-16 software and analyzed using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (one-way ANOVA) statistics. The significant level in all tests was considered at P < 0.05.Results189 out of 284 residents completed and returned the questionnaire, and the response rate was 66%. The mean CT skill score of residents (M = 13.81, SD = 3.52) was lower than the optimal level (M = 17.1 SD = 5.0). Comparing the mean CT skill scores of the residents separately for the residency year revealed a significant decrease in CT scores in the 4 years. A significant difference was found between the CT skill scores in the three groups (internal medicine, general surgery, and orthopedic surgery).ConclusionThe CT skills of the residents of Tehran University of Medical Sciences were generally below the optimal level. The CT score of the residents show an increase in PGY2, but a decrease in PGY3 and PGY4. Due to the emphasis of accreditation institutions, the World Federation for Medical Education, and other international educational institutions on the importance of critical thinking, it is recommended to pay more attention to the factors related to the promotion and development of CT skills in residency programs.

Effect of concept mapping model on critical thinking skills of family medicine residents: A randomized controlled trial.

The cognitive process of critical thinking (CT) involves the examination of the existing reasons and an analysis of the information to draw conclusions and make decisions. The goal of the study was to determine how concept mapping (CM) technique affects family medicine residents' capacity for critical thought. We conducted a randomized controlled trial among family medicine residents aged between 26 and 28 years. A total of 100 residents were involved; over the course of 3 months, 50 residents were exposed to the conventional teaching model and 50 residents to the CM model. Data was collected using California CT skills test (CCTST) modified Arabic version and a self-administered questionnaire. The primary intervention was teaching method, experimental group received CM lessons while control group had conventional lessons. First session was carried out at baseline and second session one week after baseline, whereas 3rd, 4th, and 5th sessions conducted at end of 1st, 2nd, 3rd months, respectively. Both groups were assessed at baseline and at end of 3rd month. Both groups were reassessed at end of three months. Quantitative data was presented as mean and SD, whereas frequencies and percentages used for qualitative data. Pre- and post-intervention CT scores for study groups were compared using t-test or Mann-Whitney U test, as appropriate. Groups were compared on pre- and post-intervention CT grades using Chi-square test. Vast majority (98%) of participants were females, nearly half were 27 year old, and belonged primarily to urban areas (76%). There was no difference in the CT scores between the groups at baseline. The post-intervention CT scores for study group were statistically significantly higher (18.36±2.68) compared to control group (15.94±1.94) (P = 0.001). The CM approach was superior to the conventional teaching approach in terms of improving CT.

English

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in health is important for patient safety and quality care while Critical Thinking (CT) is a vital prerequisite to evidence based nursing. Despite their importance, in some settings neither EBP nor CT is taught assessed or implemented. This scoping review examined literature related to teaching, learning, assessment and implementation of EBP and application of CT by nursing students and graduates. Arksey and O&rsquo;Malley framework was used to conduct the scoping review.&nbsp; PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Joanna Briggs Institute for EBP data bases were searched for studies conducted between 2000 and 2020. Inclusion criteria were adapted from the -Population, Intervention, Professionals and Patients, Outcomes, Health Care settings (PIPOH) framework. Search terms included; evidence based practice, nursing education, nursing practice, critical thinking, methods, barriers, facilitators to teaching, learning, assessing and implementing EBP and CT. A total of 2,303 articles were retried, eventually 37 met the inclusion criteria. Use of non-traditional instructional methods for teaching EBP and CT were documented including Problem Based Learning, concept mapping, simulation, think aloud, critical incidence technique, debates and role-plays, reflective journaling, article analysis, nursing journal clubs and multidisciplinary clinical rounds. Validated tools for assessing EBP and CT Skills included; California Critical Thinking Skills Test, Upton and Upton 2006 EBP questionnaire and Yoon&rsquo;s 2004 Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory. Teaching, assessing EBP and applying CT skills is challenging. Therefore&nbsp; innovative teaching methods are required to promote learning while successful implementation require strategies to minimize detractors and sustain enablers of the process. Key words: Evidence-Based Practice nursing, critical thinking, teaching, learning, assessment and implementation.

The Relationship between Critical Thinking Skills, Portfolio Models and Academic Achievement of Moroccan Midwifery Students

The present study investigates the relationship between critical thinking skills and portfolio models and academic achievement among midwifery students. Design: A mixed method was followed for this study. A cross-sectional study was used for reporting the results of the California critical thinking skills test (CCTST). In addition, a focus group while following the COREQ guideline to establish the categorization of portfolios. Method: the research sample consisted of 41 students, 48.78 % were registered in the third semester, and 51.21% were in the sixth semester. The CCTST was used to measure critical thinking skills (CTS). A focus group of six teachers was used to develop a classification of portfolio models. The data was analyzed using Chi-Square, and ANOVA. Results: The CCTST and all subscales are highly reliable. Age and educational level were significant variables for the portfolio models, and (CTS). Relationships were also found between the midwifery student’s portfolios models and their CCTST overall scores. Moreover, the students with the highest scores in (CTS) had portfolio Toast Rack design. Conclusion: CCTST showed good validity and reliability for Moroccan midwifery students, and can be used to inform on portfolios design. Validation with large and diverse samples is recommended. It is suggested that instructors consider the dominant portfolio design of each level and use appropriate teaching methods.&#x0D; &#x0D; Received: 21 June 2022 / Accepted: 16 August 2022 / Published: 2 September 2022

Development of critical thinking and language proficiency among undergraduate Swedish online EFL students

Critical thinking (CT) is considered important in second language (L2) learning. Previous studies have investigated and confirmed a correlation between critical thinking and L2 learning in face-to-face (f2f) learning. The present study aimed to investigate the correlation between CT and L2 proficiency in an online learning environment. The participants in this study were undergraduate Swedish students taking part in an online EFL course at a Swedish university. Students’ CT skills were measured by the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST). As previous studies confirm that vocabulary size correlates with general language proficiency, it was seen as a suitable measure of students’ L2 proficiency. Hence, the Vocabulary Size Test (VST) was used to measure students’ vocabulary size. The present study was designed as a pre-test post-test study aiming to investigate the correlation between the processes of CT development and L2 learning during one semester of four months. Contrary to previous studies, no correlation between CT and L2 proficiency could be detected. Moreover, students in this study made no statistically significant improvement of CT and L2 proficiency. The results must be interpreted in light of students’ already high levels of CT and L2 proficiency and the relatively short testing period.

Prediction of academic performance based on learning style and critical thinking among medical students

This study aimed to understand the medical sciences students’ critical thinking (CT) and their learning styles and investigate the relationship between academic performance and the both mentioned variables. A descriptive analytical study was conducted on 469 medical sciences students in Ardabil University of Medical Sciences using the Kolb's learning styles and California's CT skills test (Form-B). Cumulative grade point average was considered as academic performance. The data were analyzed with SPSS 18 and using Chi Square test, Independent t-test, one-way ANOVA and Pearson correlation test with a significant level of p<0.05 . The mean of academic performance was 15.9±1.7 . The popular learning style among students was assimilative style. Results showed significant relationship between academic performance and learning style. Significant relationship between academic performances of students with the total CT skills was not found, but significant relationship was seen between academic performance and deductive skill only. Learning styles changed in different semesters among medicine and dentistry students from an abstract-reflexive style to a concrete-active one. Using appropriate, active and collaborative teaching methods can help to improve learning and students' academic performance.

Critical Thinking Cognitive Skills and Their Associated Factors in Chinese Community College Students in Hong Kong

The importance of fostering critical thinking (CT) in community college education has been recognized highly worldwide. However, limited studies have been conducted to investigate CT abilities among community college students in the Asian context. A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted with 209 Chinese community college students to assess the levels of CT cognitive skills and CT dispositions and to identify the associated factors. The California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST), California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory (CCTDI), and a questionnaire on the students’ socio-demographic and academic profiles were used. The results showed that the average level of CT cognitive skills was 17.82 ± 4.10, which was at the upper end of the moderate range. For CCTDI scores, the mean value was 278.81 ± 22.61 and positive disposition towards CT was shown in four subscales: open-mindedness, analyticity, confidence in reasoning, and inquisitiveness. From regression analysis, HKDSE total score (i.e., university entrance examination total score), CT subject grade level, CCTDI truth-seeking, and CCTDI analyticity were identified as the four significant factors associated with their CT cognitive skills. The findings provide significant implications when reviewing the program design and curriculum as well as the addition of CT elements in a separate course to promote students’ CT abilities for sustainable development.

Fostering Creativity and Critical Thinking in College: A Cross-Cultural Investigation.

Enhancing creativity and critical thinking have garnered the attention of educators and researchers for decades. They have been highlighted as essential skills for the 21st century. A total of 103 United States students (53 female, 24 male, two non-binary, and 24 non-reporting) and 166 Chinese students (128 female, 30 male, one non-binary, and seven non-reporting) completed an online survey. The survey includes the STEAM-related creative problem solving, Sternberg scientific reasoning tasks, psychological critical thinking (PCT) exam, California critical thinking (CCT) skills test, and college experience survey, as well as a demographic questionnaire. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) yields a two-factor model for all creativity and critical thinking measurements. Yet, the two latent factors are strongly associated with each other (r=0.84). Moreover, Chinese students outperform American students in measures of critical thinking, whereas Americans outperform Chinese students in measures of creativity. Lastly, the results also demonstrate that having some college research experience (such as taking research method courses) could positively influence both United States and Chinese students’ creativity and critical thinking skills. Implications are discussed.