An Investigation into Habits of Mind Prospective Teacher: Do They Have it?

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to obtain a profile of habits of mind among prospective teacher students in the PMIPA (Science, Mathematics, and Environmental Education) Department in Pontianak, Indonesia. Recognizing the importance of habits of mind in shaping learning outcomes and life skills, the research aims to assess the prevalence and distribution of self-regulation, critical thinking, and creative thinking among teacher education students.   Methods: The research utilizes a quantitative descriptive approach, conducted across three study programs: Biology Education, Chemistry Education, and Mathematics Education. Purposive sampling is employed to select a sample of 100 prospective teacher students. Data collection involves the administration of a questionnaire comprising three aspects: self-regulation, critical thinking, and creative thinking. The collected data are analyzed using quantitative methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of the habits of mind among PMIPA students.   Results and Discussion: The research findings reveal that the habits of mind among PMIPA students are generally categorized as good, with 84% exhibiting favorable habits. Among the three study programs, Biology Education students exhibit the highest percentage of favorable habits, followed by Chemistry Education and Mathematics Education. Self-regulation emerges as the predominant habitual component of the mind, followed by critical thinking, with creative thinking ranking lowest in prevalence. These findings suggest that while PMIPA students demonstrate strengths in self-regulation and critical thinking, there may be opportunities for further development of creative thinking skills.   Implications of the Research: The results of this research hold significant implications for universities and lecturers involved in teacher education programs. By providing insights into the habits of mind prevalent among prospective teacher students, the findings can inform the design of appropriate teaching and learning strategies tailored to the needs and strengths of PMIPA students. Additionally, the research outcomes may contribute to the enhancement of teacher education curricula, emphasizing the cultivation of critical thinking and creative thinking skills alongside self-regulation.   Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing literature by offering a detailed examination of habits of mind among prospective teacher students in the PMIPA Department, particularly in the context of teacher education in Pontianak, Indonesia. By focusing on the components of self-regulation, critical thinking, and creative thinking, the research provides valuable insights into the cognitive and metacognitive skills prevalent among PMIPA students. The findings offer a basis for enhancing teacher education programs and fostering the development of well-rounded educators equipped with essential habits of mind for success in teaching and lifelong learning.