Using Wordwebs to Inculcate Higher Order Thinking Skills in Professional UG Classes – A Case study

Abstract

The present paper explores the efficacy of a simple word activity known as “wordwebs” in inculcating higher order thinking skills in professional UG classes.  Generally used in classes as an icebreaker, this seemingly simple word activity can, if properly channelled, instill higher cognition skills in the students.  For the present study, wordweb activity has been conducted to arrive at the findings and conclusions.  The students are explained how to channel their thoughts so as to improve their higher order thinking skills before beginning the activity.  At the first level, the class is given a few simple words and the wordwebs are created on the blackboard.  At the second level the students are encouraged to come up with words which are related to the first level words.  In the third level, the students are encouraged to identify problems and offer solutions centred on the words they have recollected.  Based on these activities, the discussion is developed so as to study the influence of wordwebs in imparting higher order thinking skills in professional UG classes.

Keywords: Higher order thinking skills, wordwebs, influence of wordwebs, cognition skills