The Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal as a Predictor of Performance in a Critical Thinking Course

Abstract

The validity of the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (WGCTA) measure (Watson and Glaser, 1964) was examined in an academic setting emphasizing the use of critical thinking with an accelerated group of students who were pursuing a combined baccalaureate and professional program of medicine. Using a criterion of grades from a specially designed physics course intended to stress critical thinking, validity coefficients of .54 ( p < .00002) and of .45 ( p < .0007), respectively, were observed for each of two predictors: (a) total scores on the College Board Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and (b) total scores on the WGCTA measure. The WGCTA did not add much to the total prediction and should probably not be used as a substitute for regular entrance examinations in a college setting. However, the fact that it significantly predicted standing in a specialized course at the college level lends some credence to its criterion-related validity.