The role of engagement in the development of critical thinking in undergraduates

Abstract

This study explores the link between academic research, extracurricular engagement and the development of critical thinking of undergraduate students using a single statistical model. Empirical basis of the research was provided by the results of the Student Experience in the Research University (SERU) survey conducted in one of Russian national research universities in 2017 (N=3,344). Binary logistic regression reveals a statistically significant relationship between the development of critical thinking and student engagement in learning, research and extracurricular activities, higher involvement corresponding to better critical thinking skills. The findings may be useful for developing curricula, allocating student workload, and devising new initiatives for university students.