Abstract
This study explores the relationship among critical thinking, open-mindedness, and students' interest in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) among students of the College of Education, Gidan Waya. The study has three objectives, three research questions and three hypotheses. The study adopted a survey research design. The population of this study consisted of all 1,223 NCE and degree students enrolled in the College of Education, Gidan Waya Simple random sampling techniques was used in the selection of 300 students who participated in the study, while stratified random sampling technique to ensure representation across levels (NCE I–III, levels), departments (technical/vocational and non-technical), and gender. The instrument used in data collection was questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) were used to describe the participants' levels of critical thinking, open-mindedness, and interest in TVET. The null hypotheses were tested using t-test for independent sample, correlation and regression analyses at alpha level of 0.05 significance using SPSS 20. Findings reveal a significant positive relationship between critical thinking and interest in TVET, as well as between open-mindedness and TVET engagement. The results suggest that students who exhibit higher-order thinking skills and a willingness to consider diverse perspectives are more likely to value and pursue vocational education opportunities. These insights underscore the importance of integrating cognitive skill development into teacher education curricula to foster a more favorable disposition toward TVET. The study concludes that students of the College of Education, Gidan Waya exhibited a strong capacity for critical thinking, demonstrated through their tendency to evaluate information, consider multiple perspectives, identify weaknesses in arguments, and reflect on their actions. The study recommended that educational stakeholders should design teaching methods and learning environments that foster critical thinking and reflective practices across all disciplines.
Keywords: Critical Thinking, Open-Mindedness, Technical and Vocational Education, Training, Educational Experiences
Publication Date: 0225-12-10