Characterization and Development of Critically-Thinker EFL Readers' Reading Ability: Asynchronous Web-based Collaborative vs. Question-Answer-Relationship Instructional Approach

Accommodating multiple processes including analyzing, interpreting, evaluating, and understanding content, critical thinking in education has received attention from various perspectives to the extent that some models have been suggested for its characterization. However, characterizing a critically-thinker second language learner as well as the way such characteristics can be developed and implemented in SLA is still in need of further efforts. In line with this requirement, this mixed-methods study was designed to feature a critically-thinker reader in developing both her critical thinking and reading abilities in the light of two novel instructional mechanisms (i.e., an asynchronous web-based collaborative (AWC) vs. Question-Answer-Relationship (QAR) instructional approaches). To this end, a sample of Iranian EFL learners (Pilot group) was interviewed based on which first the features of a critically-thinker reader were extracted, analyzed, and modeled via MaxQDA. Then, every three groups (i.e., Control, QAR & AWC) were exposed to its specific type of instruction. In addition to the extraction of ‘argumentation’, ‘judgment’, ‘dispositions’, ‘action’, ‘social cognition’, and ‘creativity’ each with its sub-categories as the sub-traits of the critically-thinker’s conceptual model, ANOVAs were run to analyses the quantitative data. The results showed that the AWC group outperformed QAR and control groups both in critical reading and critical thinking features. So, it is theoretically and pedagogically implied that the developments of both cognitive traits (i.e., critical thinking) and the resultant language skills (e.g., reading skill) are subject to appropriate instructional approach/s.

کلیدواژه ها:

Critical Thinking and Reading ، Critical Pedagogy ، Criticality ، Questions-Answer-Relationship ، Asynchronous Web-based Collaborative Learning