COMPREHENSION PROCESSES AND CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS IN TWO UNIVERSITY ENTRANCE EXAMS IN INDONESIA: A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF THE SBMPTN AND THE SIMAK UI 2008-2019

Abstract

Language testing development intervened with cognitive processes and higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) has impacted the English tests, included Indonesian university entrance exams within a decade. State universities in Indonesia which are in demand to the high quality of their candidates have conducted a highly reputable entrance exams to select their best candidates. However, less research was conducted to investigate the trend of English questions in the scope of university entrance tests. This study aimed to investigate trends of English questions tested in both the SBMPTN (national university entrance exams) and the SIMAK UI (Universitas Indonesia’s entrance exams) in a decade (from 2009 to 2018). The study design was a mixed-method employing content analysis to English questions (quantitatively and qualitatively).  The findings revealed; 1) types of questions tested, 2) comprehension processes, 3) and higher-order thinking questions, and 4) construction MCQs to promote critical thinking skills in both entrance exams. Finally, implications of the findings were elaborated.