Critical Reader’s Development Today. The International Office of Telkom University once again held the Online Joint Class between Telkom University (Tel-U) and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) on the topic of How to be a Critical Reader: New Perspectives in New Times. “How to be a Critical Reader” class was held on Friday, 5 March 2021 and attended by more than 50 participants. Inviting two guest speakers from both respective universities, Dr. Grisna Anggadwita, lecturer at Telkom University and Dr. Chong Su Li, lecturer at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS share a very interesting topic on how important it is to be a critical reader in this current situation.

Dr. Chong explained that critical reading means that a reader applies certain processes, models, questions, and theories that result in enhanced clarity and comprehension. We will make judgments and interpretations of the ideas, arguments, and claims of others presented in the texts we read instead of reading to determine ways of thinking about the subject matter. She also added that tips on how to enhance us to be a critical reader by reading, thinking, reflecting, and responding. By understanding the way to be a critical reader, a person is expected to see object or things differently.

Critical Reading and Critical Reader

Dr. Grisna discussed a critical reading engaging in what we read by asking ourselves questions such as, “what is the author trying to say?” or “what is the main argument being presented?” She also explained reading a cognitive process of decoding symbols to derive meaning from a text. The activities to be a critical reader: previewing, skimming, and Scanning. She added that skill tips on how to become a critical reader are:

• The ability to distinguish between fact and opinion
• The ability to identify the author’s purpose
• The ability to make inferences
• The ability to recognize the author’s tone
• The ability to recognize persuasive techniques

“How to be a Critical Reader” is the 5th online joint class between Telkom University and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS. Participants are expected to have a new point of view regarding critical reading. So they can be a critical reader who understand and appreciate the process. This online joint class between Telkom University and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS will continue with more interesting topics. Each participant who takes part in this activity will get an e-certificate at the end of the event.(IO)***