Reinforcing moderation : university instructors' role in incorporating social networks to promote critical thinking among female umm al-qura students

Abstract EN

Results emerged from this research support the assumption that critical thinking is an integral element in transforming traditional forms of Saudi education into a constructive one.

In the interim, new social media is important for supporting constructive learning and critical thinking practice, because new social media are an integral element of the learning environment of younger Saudi generations.

The results also indicate that the traditional teacher centered learning context can never develop critical thinking skills in students, and opening the learning platform for Saudi students to take the lead position is the only guarantee that students will be able to master and practice critical thinking skills in a manner that transcends the learned experiences, bringing these skills to real life situations and to the workplace, particularly since the release of the monarchy's decrees allowing Saudi females the right to drive cars and to travel without the permission of their custodians.

In the meantime, the country's vision 2030 targets to establish a variant society whose members adhere to the moderate Islamic teachings while vividly interacting with the global society.

They are expected to live a harmonious life where their national awareness sync with their international belonging.

Research results reveal that training new Saudi generation to master critical thinking paves their paths to lead such life.

They are also expected to develop a deep appreciation of their cultural heritage while enjoying a good life in a modern information society.

Therefore, a constructive education that invests information technology, guarantees the improvement of their ability to use information technology consciously. These new sociocultural transitions need an educational revolution based on moderation and tolerance that will protect women's emergence into the expected variant society and its labor market from the backlashes of extremism.

Specially, with the growing need for new professional sectors as explained in the 2030 vision education reforms must be at the heart of any Saudi debate and plan.