No College Students Left Behind: Writing Module Incorporating Critical Thinking Skills for the National Postgraduate Entrance Examination in China

Abstract

In recent years, Chinese universities and scholars have recognised the significance of critical thinking. Despite this growing awareness, integrating critical thinking skills into the curriculum remains a challenge in China. To gain entry to postgraduate programmes, students majoring in management in the country are required to take a National Postgraduate Entrance Examination (NPEE) that emphasises logical knowledge related to critical thinking and writing. Hence, this study aims to develop a writing module that incorporates critical thinking skills for college students in China. To achieve this, a mixed methods approach was employed. Firstly, a prototype writing module was created using the Analyse, Design, Develop, Implement and Evaluate (ADDIE) Model and verified by content experts for content validity. Subsequently, the module was implemented in a traditional classroom setting. For the pilot study, a pilot sample of 50 students was randomly chosen from a training centre in China that assists college students to prepare for the examination. For the next stage, 100 students were selected as the study sample. After implementing the writing module, both quantitative and qualitative analysis were conducted. The results indicated a significant improvement in participants' scores in the pre-test and post-test, demonstrating the effectiveness of the writing module in fostering critical thinking skills. The writing module developed by the researchers will have a profound effect on Chinese teachers' teaching in the future. It will provide them with clear instructional materials to cultivate Chinese students' critical thinking abilities, ensuring that no college students will be left behind.