PanSIG 2025

Developing Critical Thinking Skills and Depth of Knowledge in an EAP Course

17 May 2025, 14:50

25m

BLDG 8/1F-112 (Kanda University of International Studies (神田外語大学))

Research-oriented Oral Face-to-face presentation Critical Thinking B8-112 SAT: ICLE & Critical Thinking; SUN: CT, Listening & ER

Speakers

Prof. Izumi Kanzaka (Soka University) Kriti AroraProf. Richmond Stroupe (Soka University)

KEYWORDS

English for Academic Purposes (EAP), critical thinking, depth of knowledge

ABSTRACT

The development of critical thinking skills is often added as a goal of English courses at universities in Japan, particularly related to English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses. This presentation will share the lessons learned through an EAP course which emphasizes Global Citizenship Education (GCE) for Japanese EFL university learners. An EAP course with a GCE focus can encourage learners to examine global, local and current issues, and develop critical thinking skills. While global understanding and critical thinking skills can be developed over time with appropriate scaffolding and support, a sufficient level of knowledge is a prerequisite for students being able to demonstrate higher order thinking skills. A series of class activities and student independent research tasks which facilitated the students’ development of an appropriate level of depth of knowledge in order to engage in discussions, write effective essays, and demonstrate their understanding of global and local issues will be presented. Data on multiple student essays over the course of an academic year which demonstrate this development of critical thinking skills and depth of knowledge over time will be presented. The presentation will conclude with feasible recommendations for teachers who wish to implement similar approaches in academic English courses.