Developing students' critical thinking abilities using the English literacy comprehension Journal: A case study in Biology Education

Abstract

Students must master their critical thinking ability because it is the basis for analyzing arguments so that they can develop a reasonable mindset. In addition, the critical thinking ability to speak English is also an important thing that students must possess to face the globalization era. In its development, literacy culture has become one of the skills of the 21st century. One way to improve literacy is to understand English journals for reference needs for the preparation of scientific papers in universities. Therefore, this study aims to examine students' critical thinking skills in understanding English journals in the Biology Education seminar course. This is a case study at the private universities in the city of Bandung involving 60 students in biology education. Students are given the task of reading independently from a journal. Data collection in this study was obtained from student reports in the form of PowerPoint, assessment results, and observations. Data analysis is carried out with stages of data validity, data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusions. The study results showed that students' critical thinking skills in understanding English journals can be developed by integrating them into course assignments.