The Path to Critical Thinking: Examining the Factors Involved in Students’ Acquisition of Epistemological Skills

• In Event: Poster Session 8
  In Poster Session: The Path to Critical Thinking: Examining the Factors Involved in Students’ Acquisition of Epistemological Skills

Abstract

Set within the theory of student engagement, this study uses SEM path analysis to examine the effects of habits of mind on academic engagement, GPA, and overall college satisfaction both directly and indirectly through two mediating variables (academic and social self-concept). Student engagement theory posits that persistence, particularly for first-year college students, is dependent on how involved students are in their educational experience. The study’s goal was to better understand students’ trajectory toward critical thinking. The study showed the significant direct effect of freshman habits of mind on senior habits of mind and GPA, lending credence to the argument that students’ positive learning behaviors have a lasting affect through to the end of their academic career.

Authors

• Lea Jacobson, Temple University

• Azeb Gebre, Temple University