Development Of Critical Thinking Research Articles

Digital storytelling in teacher education: Developing pre-service teachers’ critical thinking

Digital storytelling is a pedagogical strategy that relies on constructing digital artefacts, such as videos, to develop skills like critical thinking. However, clear actions that students need to engage in to develop these skills are often lacking. Therefore, in this qualitative study, we aimed to explore pre-service teachers' perceptions of the relationship between creating a digital story and developing critical thinking. More specifically, we examined pre-service teachers' reported actions and experiences used to build their digital stories, analysing how critical thinking skills were brought into play during this process. The analysis of the interviews showed the actions pre-service teachers take when creating a digital story and how these actions, in turn, promote the development of critical thinking. The results suggest that (a) a wide range of critical thinking skills are at play when constructing a digital story and (b) the most reported skills are those related to planning and design, solving emerging challenges to pursue a critical argument and representing ideas with the use of rhetorical elements. Furthermore, we discuss the implications for pre-service teachers' training. Finally, we address the limitations of this study and provide suggestions for future research. Implications for practice or policy: Student teachers and teacher trainers can count on a set of actions that will allow them to visualise the development of critical thinking when their students create digital stories. Teacher trainers can benefit from a pedagogical strategy that can facilitate the development of critical thinking in pre-service teachers.

Gender Differences and Critical Thinking: A Study on the Written Compositions of Primary Education Students

The development of critical thinking is essential to the treatment of gender perspective in Primary Education. For this reason, this study focused on determining the critical ability of primary students depending on gender, analysing the possible connections between the participants’ breadth of thought and spelling competence. The methodology was based on a humanistic–interpretative ad hoc approach to categorical organisation. A total of 636 Primary Education students from the Region of Murcia (Spain) participated in a field activity in which they created a written composition based on a pretext that contained an image showing a controversial gender situation; this illustration incited a critical response in the creation of each story. The compositions were analysed individually and qualitatively using the Atlas.Ti software (v.8.4). The most relevant results appear to prove the higher critical ability of the girls who participated in this study, and additionally show connections with the spelling competence of these students. However, the critical thinking and spelling values shown were still far from what would be expected of a developed society.

TRAINING FUTURE COMPUTER SCIENCE TEACHERS TO USE ARTIFICIALINTELLIGENCE TECHNOLOGIES IN THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS

The article discusses the training of future computer science teachers to use artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in education. The authors highlight the relevance of this issue in light of the rapid spread of AI technologies in various spheres of life and the need to develop students’ digital competencies related to the use of artificial intelligence. The study aims to identify the essential competencies that future computer science teachers need to effectively use AI in education. It also analyzes the existing problems and challenges in this area, studies the prospects for the use of AI in education, develops recommendations for improving relevant training programs, and overcoming barriers to the implementation of AI technologies. The study identified three main groups of competencies for future computer science teachers in the field of AI: technical, pedagogical, ethical and legal. Technical competencies include knowledge of AI technology principles, algorithms, and software. Pedagogical competencies relate to the ability to adapt teaching materials and methods to the capabilities of AI and to develop appropriate tasks and projects. Ethical and legal competencies involve comprehending the risks and challenges associated with AI usage, as well as being aware of the ethical principles and legal norms in this field. The article analyzes technical, pedagogical, ethical, and legal problems related to introducing AI technologies into computer science teacher training and education. It also explores the potential benefits of AI in education, such as personalized and adaptive learning, improved teaching and assessment effectiveness, and the development of critical thinking and creativity in students. The authors suggest methods to enhance computer science teacher training programs, such as incorporating specialized AI courses, providing practical training, and involving industry experts. They also stress the significance of considering the most effective international practices in this field. To summarize, the article highlights the pressing need to modernize the computer science teacher training system in Ukraine. This is necessary to develop the competencies required for the effective use of AI technologies in the educational process. Such modernization will contribute to the development of students’ digital literacy and ensure the competitiveness of the Ukrainian educational system in the context of digital transformation.

Business education and its paradoxes: Linking business and biodiversity through critical pedagogy curriculum

AbstractThe Kunming‐Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, launched during the United Nations Biodiversity Conference in December 2022, encourages governments, companies and investors to publish data on their nature‐related risks, dependencies and impacts. These disclosures are intended to drive businesses to recognise, manage and mitigate their reliance on ecosystem goods and services. However, there is a ‘biodiversity blind spot’ that is evident for most organisations and business schools. Business education rarely addresses the root causes of biodiversity loss, such as the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources. As the dominant positioning of Education for Sustainable Development Goals (ESDG) presents biodiversity in anthropocentric instrumental terms inadequate for addressing ecosystem decline, we posit that a more progressive and transformative ecocentric education through ecopedagogy and ecoliteracy is needed. Both approaches include the development of critical thinking about degrowth, the circular economy and conventional stakeholder theory to include non‐human stakeholders. Using comparative case studies from Northumbria University, the University of Hong Kong and Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, we illustrate how business education can be transformed to address biodiversity loss, providing theoretical guidance and practical recommendations to academic practitioners and future business leaders.

РОЗВИТОК КРИТИЧНОГО МИСЛЕННЯ МАЙБУТНІХ ВЧИТЕЛІВ ІНФОРМАТИКИ ТА МАТЕМАТИКИ З ВИКОРИСТАННЯМ ЗАСОБІВ ШТУЧНОГО ІНТЕЛЕКТУ

The article examines the problems of developing critical thinking of future teachers of computer science and mathematics using artificial intelligence tools. The experience of domestic and foreign researchers regarding the use of artificial intelligence in education for the development of critical thinking, in particular, the United States of America, the Republic of Poland, and the Republic of Slovenia, was analyzed. The necessary components of critical thinking are defined: the use of logical thinking to analyze problems, make decisions and solve problems; obtaining, interpreting and using knowledge/facts/data in the process of solving problems; demonstration (manifestations) of creativity and non-standard thinking. In order to investigate the specifics of the application of critical thinking skills by future teachers of computer science and mathematics when working with artificial intelligence systems, a survey was conducted. The "Klochko Questionnaire: Peculiarities of using critical thinking skills by future teachers of computer science and mathematics when working with artificial intelligence systems" was created. The possibilities of using artificial intelligence tools in education have been clarified, in particular: analysis of educational data, creation of educational content, professional development, adaptive learning, and others.The results of the study showed that 92.2% of respondents use or plan to use artificial intelligence tools in the educational process. The vast majority of students studying to become computer science and mathematics teachers actively use artificial intelligence to solve various problems, applying critical thinking and developing their critical thinking skills. The development of critical thinking skills of future computer science and mathematics teachers is a necessary condition for their academic success, personal and professional development, competitiveness, preparation for future challenges, solving new problems, teaching students to think critically. The implementation of artificial intelligence tools for the development of critical thinking in future teachers may have certain risks, such as excessive trust in artificial intelligence and the reduction of the role of one's own experience, intuition, etc. It is important to note that the field of using artificial intelligence technologies in education is just beginning to develop and needs additional research, however, it has great potential for the development of critical thinking of future teachers.

Analisis Perkembangan Berpikir Kritis Siswa dalam Pembelajaran Matematika Perspektif Studi Longitudinal

This research explores the development of students' critical thinking in mathematics learning through a longitudinal study approach. With a focus on problem solving, creative thinking, and conceptual understanding, this study aims to understand how students develop critical thinking skills over time. A longitudinal research method was used with 100 students from two secondary schools in Medan city as participants. Results showed significant improvements in students' critical thinking scores from the beginning to the end of the semester, with teacher training interventions and differences between schools making significant contributions. The implication of this study is the importance of innovative learning approaches and support for teachers in improving students' critical thinking skills in the context of mathematics learning

Issues Related to the Use of Visual Social Networks and Perceived Usefulness of Social Media Literacy During the Recovery Phase: Qualitative Research Among Girls With Eating Disorders.

The patient-centered approach is essential for quality health care and patient safety. Understanding the service user's perspective on the factors maintaining the health problem is crucial for successful treatment, especially for patients who do not recognize their condition as clinically relevant or concerning. Despite the association between intensive use of visual social media and body dissatisfaction and eating disorders, little is known about the meanings users assign to posting or searching for edited photos and the strategies they use to protect themselves from digital risks. This study aims to examine how young women recovering from eating disorders in Northern Italy perceive the health risks and potential benefits associated with visual social networks (ie, Instagram and Snapchat). The literature has found these platforms to be detrimental to online body comparisons. It also explores the perceived usefulness, willingness, and personal interest in coconstructing social media literacy programs with girls recovering from eating disorders. A total of 30 semistructured interviews were conducted with adolescent girls aged 14-17 years at the end of their treatment for eating disorders. The following areas of research were addressed: (1) the meanings associated with the use of Instagram and Snapchat; (2) the investment in the photographic dimension and feedback; (3) the impact of visual social networks on body experiences; (4) the potential and risks perceived in their use; (5) the importance of supporting girls undergoing treatment for eating disorders in using social networks; and (6) the usefulness and willingness to co-design social network literacy programs. Content analysis was applied. A total of 7 main contents emerged: active or passive role in using social networks, the impact of online interactions on body image, investment in the photographic dimension, effects on self-representation, perceived risks, self-protective strategies, and potential benefits. The findings highlight a strong awareness of the processes that trigger body comparisons in the virtual context, creating insecurity and worsening the relationship with oneself. The self-protective behaviors identified are the development of critical thinking, the avoidance of sensitive content, increased control over social networking site use, and a certain skepticism toward developing antagonistic ideologies. All these topics were considered fundamental. The findings provide important insights for health professionals working with youth in preparing media literacy programs. These programs aim to reduce potential risks and amplify the positive effects of online resources. They underscore the importance of addressing this issue during hospitalization to develop skills and critical thinking aimed at changing small habits that perpetuate the problem in everyday life. The inherent limitations in current service practices, which may not adequately address individual needs or impact posttreatment life, must also be considered.

Effects of Technology-aided Teaching Mode on the Development of CT Skills of EFL Students in Higher Vocational Colleges: A Case Study of English Argumentative Writing

With the increasing application of technology in education, exploring the value of technology-aided teaching modes in promoting students' development of critical thinking (CT) skills has become more prominent. This study targets English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students in Higher Vocational Colleges (HVCs) to empirically investigate the effects of technology-aided teaching on their development of CT skills. Utilizing the method of equal-group comparative teaching experiment, this study divided students into control and experimental groups and implemented various technology-aided teaching interventions in the experimental group. The results reveal that the application of technology has a positive impact on the development of CT skills and improvement in English argumentative writing among EFL students. Based upon these findings, this study proposes a teaching mode “problem-based learning context creating - viewpoints expressing - viewpoint questioning - collaborative resolution - reflective learning,” aiming to provide insights for effectively conducting CT teaching for EFL students under a technological environment.

Explore first approach in a virtual and immersive learning environment with ChatGPT

Explore first pedagogical approach promotes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Promotes active involvement on the part of learners with the subject matter, which leads to exploring concepts through hands-on activities fostering a deeper understanding. The use of virtual and immersive learning environments (VILEs) in an educational context has raised interest among teachers and researchers. In this study, we design a short-training course supported by exploring first in a VILE. With this study, we investigate the perception of teachers who attended a short-training course about integrating VILEs in their teaching practice. Quantitative and qualitative methods have been used to collect teachers’ perceptions. Quantitative data were subjected to statistical analysis, and qualitative data to content analysis. The results excitingly reveal teachers’ openness to integrating immersive virtual learning environments in their teaching work and admit advantages. These teachers were interested in using immersive virtual learning environments as educational resources but recognized that they needed training to use them effectively. Therefore, it is thought that exploring first in an immersive virtual learning environment will contribute to distance education by online learning.

Innovative Models for SMK and Industry Partnerships Aligned with the Merdeka Belajar Curriculum

The Merdeka Belajar curriculum represents a significant shift in Indonesia's educational landscape, emphasizing freedom in learning and the development of critical thinking and practical skills. Vocational High Schools (SMKs) play a crucial role in preparing students for the workforce, and effective industry partnerships are essential for achieving the curriculum’s goals. Despite their importance, there is a lack of innovative models that facilitate these partnerships effectively. This study aims to explore and propose innovative models for SMK-industry partnerships that align with the Merdeka Belajar curriculum. By identifying and evaluating these models, the study seeks to enhance the quality of vocational education and better prepare students for employment. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. Surveys and interviews with key stakeholders, including educators, industry partners, and policymakers, were conducted to gather insights. Additionally, case studies of successful SMK-industry partnerships were analyzed to identify best practices. The data were then synthesized to develop and evaluate innovative partnership models. Results of the study identify three innovative models for SMK-industry partnerships: Model A, which focuses on co-designed curriculum development; Model B, which emphasizes dual apprenticeship programs; and Model C, which integrates real-world projects into the learning process. Each model was evaluated based on criteria such as effectiveness, scalability, and sustainability. The findings indicate that these models significantly enhance student engagement, skill acquisition, and employability.

Critical Thinking as a Pedagogical Category: A Comparative Aspect

The article is dedicated to a comparative analysis of critical thinking as a pedagogical category in the works of Ukrainian and foreign researchers. Critical thinking is considered as a necessary component of modern education aimed at developing students' abilities for analysis, synthesis, and making informed decisions in various life situations. Various approaches to the development of critical thinking in education in Ukraine and abroad are analyzed; common and distinctive features in the scientific approaches in the works of Ukrainian and foreign researchers are identified. During the research, methods of comparative analysis, systematic approach, synthesis, and generalization of scientific and pedagogical literature were applied. It is concluded that the development of critical thinking is a key factor in improving the quality of education. It has been proven that the integration of the best foreign practices into Ukrainian educational programs will contribute to the preparation of highly qualified specialists capable of adapting to the conditions of a globalized world. The prospects for further research are outlined, including the development of innovative techniques for the development of critical thinking, taking into account the specifics of Ukrainian education and the needs of modern students.

CLIL-подход в обучении ESP практикующих юристов в рамках реализации курса повышения квалификации (опыт Финуниверситета)

Introduction. Today, universities face the task of establishing cooperation with business, including in the field of creating language courses for advanced training within the framework of the transfer of educational technologies. The author presents a unique experience in the development of language training courses “English for lawyers” (Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, 2023). Theoretical analysis. Conducting the comparative analysis of the problem allowed the author to conclude that the appeal to the CLIL-approach in ESP teaching through the tools of online pedagogy is justified. The client-oriented educational track constituted the uniqueness of this course. Empirical analysis. Consideration of the problem of using the CLIL-approach allowed us to identify the effectiveness of the selected methods: communicative, case study, inverted classroom, development of critical thinking, etc. in the field of ESP teaching. Conclusion. The use of the CLILapproach in the ESP training of practicing lawyers is effective and justified in terms of language proficiency development. Such courses allow one to see trends in the labor market and make appropriate adjustments to the educational tracks of universities.

The development of EFL pre-service teachers’ critical thinking in teaching practicum: a case study

ABSTRACT This study investigates the development of critical thinking skills among EFL pre-service teachers during their teaching practicum. The participants comprised three pre-service EFL teachers, belonging to a teaching practicum group that included one university supervisor and three middle school mentors. Data were collected through video recordings of group meetings conducted during the practicum and interviews with the pre-service teachers. Analysis of the data revealed a gradual development of critical thinking among the pre-service teachers over the course of the teaching practicum. They attributed this development to several factors, including the guidance provided by the university supervisor and middle school mentors, peer communication, and the practice of evaluation during the practicum. The implications of these findings are discussed in light of the analysis, offering insights for teacher education programmes aiming to foster critical thinking skills among pre-service teachers.

THE RELEVANCE OF ENHANCING CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNERS

The article discusses new trends in higher education and educational technologies, focusing on the development of critical thinking skills. It examines various definitions and approaches to critical thinking, including philosophical and cognitive-psychological perspectives. The technology of critical thinking development is explored as a system of methodical techniques and strategies aimed at enhancing students' educational and cognitive awareness. The article also discusses the relationship between critical thinking and Bloom's taxonomy, highlighting the importance of developing critical thinking skills in language learning. It concludes by emphasizing the need to structure learning activities to target different levels of critical thinking, from acquiring knowledge to synthesizing information and forming conclusions.

A study of trust and satisfaction with local authorities in Ukraine. The impact of populism

The article analyzes a number of aspects and factors that, in the authors’ opinion, influence the penetration of populism into local government. It is the aspect of trust that can influence the penetration and even greater influence of populism in local self-government. The authors highlight such important topics as the factors that would contribute to the success of populism and the specifics of its manifestations at the local level. Special attention is paid to the analysis of trust and satisfaction of Ukrainian citizens with the work of local authorities, based and analyzed on empirical data obtained in cooperation with the sociological center "Factum Group". The article considers populism in local politics as a phenomenon that requires serious attention and analysis. It can have negative consequences for local self-government and lead to political instability and insufficient effectiveness of decisions. One of the main problems with populism is its focus on short-term, populist promises and rhetoric instead of the need for long-term planning and real development. This can lead to unjustified spending of resources and creating dependence on external financial sources, which can negatively affect the sustainability of the local economy. In addition, populism can undermine the principles of democracy and the rule of law. In the context of academic analysis, studying the impact of populism at the local government level is critical. This analysis is based on the works of R. Putnam and P. Sztompka. In the context of P. Sztompka's theory, the issue of trust in government and its importance for social institutions is considered. R. Putnam emphasizes that democracies and economies in society work better when there is citizen involvement. It was the involvement and influence of citizens on local government that became possible as a result of the decentralization process. Thus, these studies provide an understanding of what trends can affect social processes and public life. The study of these aspects makes it possible to identify effective mechanisms for counteracting the potential threats of populism, which is important for assessing the general prospects for the development of the state and its social stability. To overcome this problem, active participation of citizens, strengthening of civil society institutions, development of critical thinking and principles of openness and transparency are needed. In the future, we need further research on the aspects of influence and raising questions about other factors and systems of influence on the appearance of populists in local authorities, in order to know what local authorities should pay attention to in order to strengthen trust and resist the spread of populism. Which, as the authors note, are mutually dependent processes.

The Squirrel, Omelette, and the Truths: An Ethnographic Narrative Exploration of Philosophical Dialogue and Literacy with Young Learners

Abstract: This paper explores the innovative approach of engaging young learners in philosophical dialogue through creative storytelling. Employing an ethnographic narrative methodology, it examines storytelling sessions between the first author and her eight-year-old son, focusing on the emergent discussions about multifaceted truths inspired by the whimsical tale of “Omelette”, a fish that, according to the young storyteller, lays pre-cooked omelettes. By integrating narrative theory and elements of folklore and mythology, this paper reveals how such narratives can significantly enhance literacy and philosophical understanding in children. This research highlights the potential of storytelling as a dynamic educational tool, offering insights into the development of critical thinking and literacy skills.

Dialogic Pedagogy as a Framework for Anti-Racist Social Work Education

ABSTRACT Social work education is at a crossroads with the release of the 2022 Educational Policy Administration Standards (EPAS, 2022), which emphasize anti-racist practice. To teach anti-racist social work one must be prepared to use anti-racist pedagogical practices and be supported to do so institutionally. Freire (2020) proposes that education be a tool of liberation through the use of dialogue and attention to power dynamics. To this end, instructional making about the use of dialogue can help create liberatory classrooms. The concept of dialogic pedagogy (Alexander, 2018; Alexander, 2020) is used in education to support the development of language and critical thinking in students. Although it has yet to be applied extensively to higher education and the social work classroom, dialogic pedagogy has clear connections to social work and the potential to better prepare students for anti-racist practice. In a dialogic classroom, language between students and instructors is carefully attended to based on the following principles; purpose, cumulation, support, collectivity, deliberation, and reciprocality (Alexander, 2018; Alexander, 2020). This paper describes and endorses dialogic pedagogy as a framework to support anti-racist social work pedagogy and discusses the implementation of this framework in terms of faculty support and training.

Active didactics in the learning processes of high school students.

The study focused on evaluating the implementation of active teaching methodologies in the learning process of high school students, with an emphasis on strengthening cognitive skills and self-awareness. The results revealed that the majority of teachers apply these strategies in their classes, which supports the initial hypothesis. However, areas for improvement were identified in teacher training and the effective application of these methodologies, especially in terms of pedagogical support and the application of metacognitive strategies. Based on these findings, the creation of a methodological guide is proposed to support teachers in the correct implementation of active didactics. This guide would include specific strategies to activate cognitive processes in students, design activities that promote student leadership, and encourage the development of critical thinking and the application of learning. Additionally, the strengthening of pedagogical support for students and promoting of learning cycles to improve class methodology are suggested.

Socialisation of student youth in social networks

Social networks have become a part of the daily life of students, they influence the development of views, values and identity, which can have an impact on students’ social connections, so research is an urgent task that contributes to understanding this influence. The purpose of the study was to investigate the impact of social networks on various spheres of life of modern students. In order to investigate the issues of socialisation of young people in social networks, the study used generalisation and analytical method. As a result, the importance of developing strategies aimed at strengthening the positive impact of social networks on students was highlighted. It was revealed that changing social norms and creating an atmosphere of open and decent communication in an online environment can help improve students’ socialisation in the virtual world. It was noted that the protection of privacy and the development of critical thinking are important for ensuring the security and information competence of social network users. The importance of developing media literacy and skills in verifying the truthfulness of information in the process of socialisation of students was noted. Strategies that promote the development of virtual space and improve interaction in social networks were outlined. The paper analysed aspects of positive socialisation of students in the digital age that help them solve problems and cope with the challenges of the online environment. The results of scientific research can contribute to a better understanding of how social networks affect young people, and help researchers develop programmes and strategies aimed at supporting the positive aspects of this impact and reducing possible negative consequences

"We are not being taught sustainable citizenship!"

Education on sustainability is a crucial goal that requires a transformative shift in teacher education to drive meaningful changes oriented to action. A cross-sectional study with an exploratory design investigated preservice science teachers' perceptions regarding teaching sustainable citizenship, specifically focusing on the climate crisis and earthquakes-tsunamis. The study was conducted in two Chilean universities with similar teacher preparation programs. The team designed a podcast series, which was used and evaluated by the 13 participants through action research. Three group discussions explored their perceptions of the resources, as well as the aims and challenges of teaching sustainable citizenship and the podcasts. We used Grounded Theory steps, including triangulation by the researchers to ensure reliability, to qualitatively analyse the data. The results reveal a constraint on teaching in areas where the participants lacked the necessary preparation and background knowledge as students and preservice teachers. The main challenges were related to interdisciplinarity, the social dimension of socio-scientific issues and context-responsive teaching methods. The perceived aims were the development of students' critical thinking, informed positioning, and encouraging active citizen participation. Preservice teachers found the podcast series to be a valuable new epistemic and pedagogical resource that can support their efforts to teach sustainable citizenship and implement pedagogical strategies. The autonomous usage of the device triggered reflection processes, particularly regarding the human rights perspective, which unveiled the socio-political dimensions inherent in science education. It promoted personal re-positioning as active citizens and educators and empowered them to seek out and pursue the changes needed to reshape future classrooms. We discuss these findings in the context of teacher preparation and the use of educational technology in teacher education.