Enhancing problem solving and critical thinking skills through fieldwork practice

Problem solving and critical thinking skill are the two Generic Learning Outcomes (GILOs) of the University. The purpose of this project is to develop students’ competency in problem solving and critical thinking through fieldwork practice. Fieldwork is an intellectual activity which involves students and researchers entering into a field and conducting data collection. It becomes an essential pedagogical component in contemporary scientific and social science inquiries. In this regard, the present project aims to develop the problem solving and critical thinking skills of our students from education programmes through exposing them to fieldwork practices. It equips them with the necessary techniques in honing their own problem-solving skills and critical thinking skills. The project focuses specifically on how fieldwork can contribute to the enhancement of problem-solving skill and critical thinking skill in the context of geographical education. The output of this project includes a teaching manual for fieldwork and a teaching kit for secondary school. This project is in line with the Strategic Plan of the University which points to the need to support students’ achievement of the Generic Intended Learning Outcomes that meet the professional standards appropriate to future social and career needs.