Arab Educational Information Network

This study aimed at measuring effectiveness of a suggested program based on using visual thinking networks in developing higher order thinking skills (HOTS) among the ninth grade female students in Gaza. Program based on visual thinking networks, and the test of the higher order thinking skills. The study sample was represented by sixty-four female students divided equally into two groups. The experimental group received learning using the teaching program based on visual thinking, while the control group received learning through the traditional method. The experimental approach. 1) There are statistically significant differences in the mean scores of the experimental group and that of the control group in the higher order thinking skills test as a whole and in each skill separately (i.e. problem solving, formulation of predictions, data analysis and classification, composition, and conclusion) in favor of the experimental group. 2) The program based on visual thinking networks has improved effectiveness in developing higher order thinking skills (HOTS) among ninth graders in Gaza In the light of these findings, the researcher recommended the following: 1) Employing modern and innovative teaching strategies for the development of higher order thinking skills, especially the strategy of visual thinking networks. 2) Reconsidering the planning of science curricula for the intermediate stage so that they may focus on the development of higher order thinking skills instead of memorized knowledge and information. 3) Enhancing the general science courses of intermediate grades through teachers' guides to teach the higher order thinking skills by employing the steps of visual thinking skills strategy. (Author's abstract)