Students' and Teachers' Critical Thinking Disposition and Skills: A Comparison Between China and the United States

• In Event: Moscone Center North Roundtable Session 5
  In Roundtable Session: Teachers' Perceptions of Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Critical Thinking (CT) has become a crucial component and a desirable attribute for students to success. However, research on CT in contexts other than western countries is needed. The purpose of this study is to investigate Chinese urban elementary school students and teachers’ CT disposition and skills, with reference to previous research of the US. By conducting surveys, interviews, and observations to students and teachers, the study found 1) there is no difference on CT disposition between in-service and pre-service teachers 2) Chinese elementary students’ overall CT is lower than their US peers 3) the impact of instruction on CT may not appear at early age but definitely afterward. The findings contribute to knowledge and practice in developing students’ CT.

Authors

• Yang Yang, Qingdao University

• Conghui Xing, Qingdao University

• Siqi Li, University at Buffalo - SUNY