Proceedings of the 2nd Teaching & Education Conference, Florence

ALBANIAN PRE SERVICE TEACHERS' PERSPECTIVES ON CRITICAL THINKING DISPOSITIONS

RUDINA GULEKER

Abstract:

This study aimed to explore the perceptions of pre-service teachers' critical thinking dispositions, and their self reported attitudes to foster these dispositions in their future students. The underlying purpose was to evaluate the atmosphere of critical thinking in teacher education programs and to make recommendations for improvement in handling critical thinking preparation in these programs. The study was conducted with 38 students about to complete the master in education program in teaching history in Albania. Mixed methods were used to better tap into their perceptions. Results showed that truth-seeking was a highly valued characteristic, whereas systematicity and inquisitiveness was not regarded as important or feasible. Furthermore, the dispositions were seen to contribute to personal and societal development, whereas the lack of appropriate exposure was considered a threat.

Keywords: pre-service, perceptions, dispositions, critical thinking

DOI: 10.20472/TEC.2015.002.005

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