Gender Differences in the Use of Asynchronous Discussion Forums and Quizzes for Promoting Critical Thinking Dispositions

Abstract

This study examined female and male students' perceptions of the use of asynchronous discussion forums and quizzes to promote critical thinking dispositions. Research suggests that there are differences between female and male students in terms of learning in online environments. However, studies that focus on these differences, especially in promoting critical thinking dispositions, are limited. To this end, this chapter explores gender differences in the use of the discussion forums and quizzes to promote critical thinking dispositions. A mixed methods research approach was used. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected concurrently through a questionnaire. Findings indicate that female students had higher critical thinking dispositions related to open-mindedness and inquisitiveness than male students. There was no statistically significant difference between female and male students in the other critical thinking dispositions. Implications for pedagogical practices have been discussed. Further research can involve a larger sample from different sociocultural settings.