STUDY OF CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS STUDENTS DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING EDUCATION
Hendrik J. R . Sumarauw, Jenly Manongko, Robert Munaiseche, Davidsen Mapaliey

Universitas Negeri Manado

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to describe the ability of thinking that can be developed by students majoring in unima mechanical engineering education in the learning process. Critical thinking skills are intellectual potentials that can be developed through the learning process. Every human being has the potential to grow and develop into a critical thinker because actually the activity of thinking has a relationship with the pattern of self-management ( self organization ) that exists in every creature in nature, including humans themselves.
In this era of globalization, a person can obtain information in various ways, places and times. In order for information obtained by a person to be effective and not cause a negative impact, a filter is needed to filter out any information received. One such filter is one^s critical thinking ability. With the ability to think critically someone will determine and consider carefully and deliberately whether to accept, reject, or postpone receiving information. Given the importance of critical thinking skills, the ability to think critically must be owned by everyone.
Critical thinking can be interpreted as a process as well as an ability. The process and ability are used to understand concepts, apply, synthesize and evaluate information obtained or information produced. Critical thinking skills can be improved through various learning strategies.
Thinking skills are one of life skills that need to be developed through the education process. The ability of a person to be able to succeed in his life is partly determined by his thinking skills, especially in the effort to solve life^s problems he faces.

Keywords: critical thinking skills, learning process

Topic: Solidarity, Partnership, and Culture