The Comparative Analysis of Epistemological Beliefs, Anti-Intellectual Beliefs and Disposition towards Critical Thinking in M.A. Students of Yazd University

The present study was conducted to compare epistemological beliefs, anti-intellectual beliefs and critical thinking disposition in M.A. students of Yazd University (2013-14 academic year). The population of present study is consist of 2180 M.A. students of Yazd University out of whom 360 students were randomly category selected as a sample from three faculties, Humanities, Science and Engineering. To measure the variables of the study, three questionnaires were used: Schumer’s epistemological beliefs questionnaire, Eigenberger and Sealander’s student anti-intellectualism scale and Ricketts’ critical thinking disposition inventory. The data were also analyzed by using one sample t-test and two-way Anova. Based On one sample t-test results, mean of students was less than presumed average in variables of epistemological beliefs and anti-intellectual beliefs and it was more than presumed average in critical thinking, so it can be said that the higher education system could produce a high level of epistemological beliefs, intellectual beliefs and critical thinking disposition in students. Results of two-way Anova also showed differences in dimensions of epistemological beliefs (simple assuming the knowledge, definite assuming the knowledge, source of knowledge, innate assuming of learning ability and quick assuming the learning process) and critical thinking disposition (maturity) in terms of gender and the faculty.