Conceptualizing critical thinking learning transfer model: A qualitative approach

Purpose: Although there is a growing interest in Critical Thinking Learning Transfer (CTLT), previous studies have presented less detailed information regarding the transfer. Besides, a few pieces of literature have been focusing on medical contexts. In Malaysia, there are small number of reviews regarding the concept compared to other countries. This issue raises the question: How do the medical undergraduates in Malaysia transfer their critical thinking learning? Thus, the authors sought to explore CTLT process among medical undergraduates in Malaysia. Then, the authors synthesized the CTLT model which presented the types of CTLT. Methodology: This study adopted a qualitative case study approach. Eight medical undergraduates in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia were selected using two sampling strategies under the purposive sampling. Data obtained using in-depth interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: The findings showed three types of CTLT, namely near transfer, far transfer, and integrated transfer. Each types of the transfer were specified into components. In summary, the medical undergraduates’ conceptions on the CTLT process led to the development of a model. The model presented the types of CTLT that provide a better understanding about the extension of occurrence of CTLT among the medical undergraduates. Significance: The CTLT model presented extra value to the description of the CTLT process. This model led to a better understanding of the extension of critical thinking learning transfer occurrence among students especially in the context of early clinical year medical programme. Besides, the model may influence the future development of critical thinking pedagogies