Differences between gender and Higher-order thinking skills

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the differences between gender and High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS). A total of 85 form two students from secondary schools in Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, were selected as the sample in this study. Pupils are chosen randomly. Researchers have used a questionnaire instrument that is divided into three parts, namely student demographics, close-ended HOTS questions and open-ended HOTS questions. The findings of the study show that there is a difference between the levels of HOTS, which is analysing and evaluating in regards to the gender of students for closed-ended questions. Meanwhile, there are differences in all four levels of HOTS with respects to the gender of students for open-ended HOTS questions. The results of this study will enable the Malaysian Examinations Council to plan questions that are appropriate to the level of HOTS of all students in Malaysia. Meanwhile, the Malaysian Ministry of Education can focus on programmes for male students to reduce the gender gap in international and national examinations.