University Students’ Critical Thinking Skills with Reference to their Age and Gender

Author(s) : Soofia Noor , Huma Lodhi & Farah Shafiq

Abstract:

The aim of this quantitative study was to survey the critical thinking skills of university students studying at different public universities in Lahore based on their gender and age. The sample was chosen using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data gathered from 475 students enrolled in various semesters at five public universities. Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (WGCTA) was used to assess students’ critical thinking abilities. T-test was employed to evaluate data in order to answer the study questions.  The results of study are evident that variable of age had a small effect on students’ critical thinking skills whereas these skills did not differ regarding their gender. The study is beneficial to further explore the reasons for differences with progression in the age. The policymakers and experts can plan to inculcate curriculum at the lower level of education for the enhancement of critical thinking. The study might also help them to make relevant and desirable changes in curriculum and pedagogy.

Keywords: University Students, Critical Thinking, Critical Thinking Skills, Age, Gender