Fostering Critical Thinking Skills: The Case for Academic Communication Skills Learning at Women’s University in Africa

Dr Mildred Shingirirai Nyamayedenga
Women’s University in Africa, Zimbabwe
Email: mildrednyamayedenga@gmail.com

Abstract: The aim of the study is to establish how the Communication Skills course assist s undergraduate students at Women’s University in Africa (WUA) to enhance critical thinking skills. The current study adopts a qualitative research, approach which is hinged on the interpretivist paradigm. The study uses a single case study research design with a sample of five students who were purposively chosen. The study is framed under the reconstructionist philosophy. The study found that Communication Skills as a course helps to develop students critical thinking skills. These critical thinking skills are developed through covering the four language macro-skills which are speaking, listening, reading and writing. These macro skills are taught to every student who is in their first year and doing the first semester. The study recommends that since critical thinking skills are not obtained at once but are developed over time, it would be prudent for Women’s University in Africa to instruct its students in Communication Skills as a course during their tenure at university.