Mathematical Thinking as a Predictor of Critical Thinking Dispositions of Pre-service Mathematics Teachers Halil Coşkun Çelik

---

International Journal of Progressive Education, Volume 16 Number 4, 2020 
© 2020 INASED 
81 
Mathematical Thinking as a Predictor of Critical Thinking Dispositions of Pre-service 
Mathematics Teachers* 
Halil Coşkun Çelik
i
 
Siirt University 
Furkan Özdemir
i
 
Siirt University 
Abstract 
The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between mathematics thinking sub-dimensions 
(higher order thinking, reasoning, mathematical thinking and problem-solving) and critical thinking 
disposition. In addition, this study investigated whether mathematical thinking sub-dimensions are 
significant predictors of critical thinking disposition. This research was designed as a correlation type 
relational survey model. The study group consisted of 181 (73 female and 108 male) pre-service 
mathematics teachers studying at the Faculty of Education of a state university in the South East 
Anatolia Region of Turkey. Data were collected through personal information form, “mathematical 
thinking scale”, and “California critical thinking disposition inventory”. The analysis of data was 
made with multiple regression analysis. As a result of the study, it was found that there is a significant 
relationship between critical thinking and higher order thinking, reasoning, mathematical thinking 
skills and problem-solving sub-dimensions. In addition, the predictors of critical thinking disposition 
were found to have reasoning, mathematical thinking skills and problem-solving sub-dimensions. 
Results also illustrated that reasoning; mathematical thinking skills and problem-solving sub-
dimensions was a significant predictor of critical thinking dispositions. In this context, the study was 
discussed in the context of the development of critical thinking of pre-service mathematics teacher. 
Research results were discussed in the context of the development of mathematical thinking and 
critical thinking dispositions of pre-service mathematics teachers.