Cultural Perceptions of Critical Thinking Skills of Asian Theological College Students

Abstract

Critical thinking skills have always been defined as questioning the status quo, the assumptions of a particular field, which can be problematical for Asian students who perceive learning in a different way. This study involved a qualitative investigation of Asian students' view of critical thinking skills. These students were pursuing a Masters programme in a theological seminary in Singapore and came from several countries in Asia. The research examined how they viewed critical thinking skills in their theological education and Christian ministry, how they understood these skills as a bridge between their studies and ministry and the influence of their cultures on their concept of critical thinking. They responded that critical thinking skills are important in helping them understand the diverse sources of knowledge in their studies and apply what they learn to their ministry. In addition, critical thinking skills would enable them to form a decision about what constitutes truth in their diverse cultural and religious environment, as well as answer questions regarding pluralism and postmodernism. Some implications of this study for teaching theology to Asian students are explored.

Keywords:

• critical thinking
• culture
• theological education