INVOLVEMENT OF HIGHER ORDER THINKING SKILLS WITHIN A PREPARATORY COURSE FOR THE MALAYSIAN UNIVERSITY ENGLISH TEST

Abstract

The Malaysian University English Test (MUET) was introduced in 1999 to bridge gaps between secondary and tertiary English language needs, primarily in language proficiency. Since it is a key entrance examination for local universities, a review of the updated 2007 syllabus was important. This study’s goal was to determine the absence or presence of higher- order thinking skills within the MUET preparation course. Focus was on the syllabus and teaching-learning techniques. Data were collected from 55 students participating in the English language matriculation program through a comprehensive questionnaire, an in-depth interview with one experienced instructor, as well as an examination of the syllabus and textbook selected for the Malaysian University English Test preparation course. Participant observation and data triangulation substantiated findings, revealing low synthesis skill use concerning MUET candidates. Instructor directed lessons involved synthesis, while syllabus emphasis on the skill was minimized.