Independent Thinking Research Articles

Unleashing potential: evaluating the effectiveness of the BOPPPS teaching strategy in Chinese urology education

IntroductionThe BOPPPS teaching strategy has gained popularity in medical education in China as a more effective and practical pedagogy. However, its impact on knowledge acquisition and clinical skills in urology education has not been comprehensively evaluated. This study seeks to assess the effectiveness of the BOPPPS strategy in comparison to traditional lecture-based learning (LBL) during clinical internships in Chinese urology education, utilizing meta-analysis for verification.MethodsA cohort of 96 clinical medicine students from Xijing Hospital, engaged in clinical practice at the Department of Urology from September 2022 to June 2023, were stratified into two groups and exposed to identical teaching materials. The experimental group (n=48) was instructed using the BOPPPS model, while the control group (n=48) adhered to traditional instructional methods. Data on student satisfaction and self-assessment of the course were collected through a questionnaire, and end-of-course performance was evaluated through a post-study examination. We used meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the overall effectiveness of the BOPPPS teaching strategy compared to LBL teaching in surgery-related medical education.ResultsThe experimental group, which received instruction using the BOPPPS teaching model, achieved significantly higher scores in theoretical knowledge assessments and clinical practical skills compared to the control group. Additionally, the experimental group demonstrated greater levels of interaction with both teachers and students, with instructors displaying a higher ability to foster independent thinking among students. Furthermore, the teaching process in the experimental group was found to utilize classroom time more efficiently in comparison to the control group. And we confirmed that the BOPPPS model demonstrated a greater capacity to stimulate student interest in urology and improve their overall proficiency by meta-analysis.DiscussionThe BOPPPS model exhibits superior efficacy in clinical teaching of urology, thus warranting consideration for wider adoption and dissemination.

Teaching Research on Linear Algebra Based on Polya's "Three Principles of Learning"

This paper delves into the in-depth application of Polya's "Three Principles of Learning" within the realm of linear algebra teaching. By intricately integrating the principles of "actively learning", "learning by analogy and induction", and "reflecting and summarizing" into the teaching framework, it endeavors to not only boost students' learning enthusiasm and efficiency but also to foster their independent thinking, critical analysis, and complex problem - solving capabilities. Through a combination of real - world teaching cases, in - depth theoretical dissections, and empirical data analysis, the paper comprehensively demonstrates the far - reaching effectiveness of this teaching approach in promoting students' profound understanding and proficient mastery of linear algebra knowledge.

Research on the Practical Path of Flipped Classroom in Colleges and Universities Based on Artificial Intelligence

In today's digital era, higher education faces the urgent need for innovation and change. The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology has provided a powerful impetus for the innovation of teaching mode in colleges and universities. Flipped classroom, as a student-centred teaching mode, has been gradually promoted in colleges and universities. Combining artificial intelligence with the flipped classroom in colleges and universities can give full play to the advantages of both, effectively improve the quality of teaching, cultivate students' independent learning ability and innovative thinking, and meet the cultivation requirements for high-quality talents in the new era.

Analyzing the Analysts: Desired Skills of Commentators Based on a Delphi Panel

ABSTRACT Despite the “interpretive turn” in journalism, the essential skills of news commentators remain unclear. This paper offers a comprehensive map of commentators' desired skills, benchmarking them with news reporters' skillsets. Findings are based on a Delphi panel of Israeli news executives and experts. Commentators are expected to master critical and independent thinking, superior analytical and reasoning skills, advanced presentation and even forecasting skills. Although they are less expected than reporters to master reporting skills, according to our panelists, they cannot make do with armchair commentary. The paper combines four theoretical frameworks (role perception, boundary work, objectivity and sensemaking) making a threefold contribution: outlining a practical profile of commentators; highlighting their epistemic uniqueness; and offering a typology of commentators that may help restore order in the clutter of analysts flooding news industries.

Implementing Competency-Based Education Through the Personalized Monitoring of Primary Students’ Progress and Assessment

Competency-based education is an educational paradigm with the primary goal of combining theoretical knowledge and practical skills, giving students the opportunity to effectively apply learning outcomes in real-life situations. This approach focuses on preparing students for life’s challenges by nurturing them as independent, critical, and creative thinkers who can adapt to an ever-changing environment. This article examines the process of competency-based assessment and progress monitoring in primary grades. The study conducted a qualitative content analysis of observed lessons and teacher interviews to reveal how assessment and continuous progress monitoring can contribute to comprehensive student development. Ten primary school teachers participated in the study, responding to researchers’ questions about competency-based education and their practices in assessment and progress monitoring. The article presents the results of a qualitative study aimed at evaluating the process of competence-based assessment and progress monitoring in primary school classrooms. The study results revealed that, in assessing student progress, teachers find it important for students to not only demonstrate knowledge in different situations but also gain a clearer understanding of their learning goals and have opportunities for growth. Such an assessment system not only helps students develop self-reflection but also encourages them to take responsibility for their learning process, continually improve, and strive for higher competency achievement.

Program Technology forChoosing anEffective Educational Methodology Based onModern Pedagogical Research inThe Educational System

New innovative pedagogical technologies have become an integral part of today's education system. This article considers the role of the system in the pedagogical process. Today, the field of education is facing great changes. The rapid development of information technologies, changes in the demands of society and the needs of students created the need to introduce non-traditional approaches in the education system. Unlike the traditional education system, non-traditional approaches guide students to independent thinking, innovative approaches and development of life skills. This article discusses the importance of non-traditional approaches and their place in the modern education process.

Enhancing integrated English course teaching: A strategy for achieving international standards

Myriad of studies have shown that Content-Based Instruction (CBI) has become a widespread approach in EFL settings, particularly in developing students ‘writing and speaking skills since these productive skills need more efforts and persistence. Some considerable strategies have been applied in adopting Content-Based Instruction (CBI) in today's language classrooms. Teachers may apply this approach by asking students to work in groups and ask them to discuss text on selected topics, activate their prior knowledge, and then report the results by restating what they have read in both written and oral performance. These activities could be extended by providing tasks demonstrating students ‘lexical, syntactic, morphological and grammatical knowledge as well. In the workshop, presenters are going to demonstrate how content-based approaches may increase students' motivation, content-knowledge, and independent thinking as well. It is hoped that by applying these approaches, students may develop strategies for collecting, synthesizing, and interpreting new information as this promote students' autonomy as one of the significant principles to meet international standards of language learning.

Scientific Academic Writing Skills Among University Students: Results from a Self-Assessment Survey

This qualitative descriptive study provides a comprehensive profile of scientific academic writing skills among university students enrolled in mathematics education and primary school teacher education programs. Using a self-assessment survey, 110 students evaluated their proficiency across various dimensions of scientific writing, including clarity and coherence, organization of scientific arguments, use of scientific terminology, citation and referencing, critical evaluation of literature, and independent thinking. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to identify trends, strengths, and areas for improvement in students' writing skills. The findings revealed that students generally feel confident in their ability to construct clear academic paragraphs and use appropriate vocabulary and tone, but struggle with higher-order writing tasks such as synthesizing information from multiple sources and organizing extended scientific texts. Many students also expressed difficulties in applying proper citation and referencing styles, particularly APA format. Key strengths identified in the study include competence in basic grammar, punctuation, and paragraph structure, while notable weaknesses were found in areas such as critical evaluation, organizing complex arguments, and correct application of citation conventions. These results suggest a need for targeted instructional interventions to help students develop the advanced scientific writing skills necessary for academic success. The study's findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on improving scientific academic writing pedagogy, offering insights for educators to better support students in mastering these critical skills.

FORMATION OF THE PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE OF FUTURE FASHION INDUSTRY SPECIALISTS WITH EMPLOYERS' INVOLVEMENT IN THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS

The modern labour market in the fashion industry requires specialists with creative thinking, strong communication skills, initiative, and with the ability for continuous self-education, and quick adaptation to the demands of modern production environments. These specialists must possess high professional competence and practical skills for working in the real production sector. To form such specialists, it is increasingly relevant to consider the issues regarding the interaction between higher professional education systems and potential employers, as well as the exploration of innovative forms of integration and mutual interest between universities and businesses. This research aims to explore methods of forming the professional competence of future fashion industry specialists, considering employers' experiences and their involvement in the educational process. To determine the impact of educational activities conducted in production environments on forming professional competence in future fashion industry specialists, principles of the systemic approach were used. Theoretical methods such as synthesis, analysis, and generalisation were employed,alongside empirical methods including observation, interviews, questionnaires, testing, and surveys. The research is devoted to solving the issues of forming professional competence in future specialists in the fashion industry and developing students’ interest in the future profession by involving experienced industry specialists in the educational process and using the technical base of enterprises. The authors proposed innovative models for forming professional competencies inhigher education students studying Speciality 182: Light Industry Technologies by conducting variouseducational events in the industrial environment. The authors share their practical experience in conducting educational activities for students of Speciality 182: Light Industry Technologies at fashion industry enterprises and the methods of organising classes in the production environment of factories. They offer the following recommendations: each educational component's curriculum should establish a mandatory list of activities involving employers and specify the content of the classes. It is advisable to carry out classes at fashion industry enterprises, as a form of educational activity, purposefully and systematically. These activities should be at least 10-15% of the total study time, provided that partners characterising production processes will emphasise the professional growth prospects, and the profession's importance, additionally increasing students’ motivation. The use of active teaching methods in the educational process contributes to the formation and development of future fashion industry specialists' general and professional competencies and the development of independent thinking, creative activity, readiness for continuous education and self-education.

Cultivating creative minds: An online math course’s impact on Chinese students during the COVID-19 pandemic

This study examines the implementation and outcomes of an online mathematics course designed to foster creative and critical thinking among six Chinese 10-year-olds during the COVID-19 pandemic. Delivered by an Israeli educator, the course focused on problem-solving tasks that encouraged independent and original thinking in a cross-cultural, remote learning context. The research addresses two primary questions: how online math courses can enhance creative thinking and the challenges of implementing such courses in culturally diverse settings. Initial challenges, such as cultural hesitancy to engage in creative exercises, were addressed through carefully structured tasks blending logical reasoning with creativity. This approach resulted in significant improvements in students’ problem-solving abilities and positive attitudes toward STEM fields. A qualitative analysis of student feedback and solutions underscores the potential of online education to not only replicate but also enhance traditional learning experiences, particularly when adapted to the cultural contexts of learners. The findings highlight the importance of culturally responsive teaching and the integration of creative elements into mathematics curricula to foster higher-order thinking skills. This study provides practical recommendations for educators and policymakers while identifying key avenues for future research on the long-term impact of creative online learning and its application across diverse educational contexts.

An Assessment of the Feasibility of Artificial Intelligence Replacing Human Labor in the Completion of Pre-university Education

Personalized education has discreetly entered our field of vision with the rise of numerous AIs, including Chat-GPT4, Xiaodu, and MathGPTPro. The conventional educational paradigm may become obsolete, leading society to undergo significant transformations and a refinement process. This paper examines the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and its influence on the conventional educational framework. The analysis encompasses a literature review and empirical research on the application effects of AI in personalized learning, intelligent tutoring, and academic decision-making. Additionally, it addresses AI technology's potential challenges and future developmental trajectories within the educational sphere. What obstacles does artificial intelligence encounter in supplanting human involvement in education? In today's tailored AI education, children are happy with using AI software for learning when the educational environments match their interests, according to the poll. According to teachers, AI will not improve students' independent learning skills or critical thinking, and pupils may prefer AI's tailored training over traditional, comprehensive teaching techniques. The study's findings indicate that while AI demonstrates significant promise in education, it continues to encounter numerous limitations and challenges that hinders its ability to support human involvement in compulsory education fully.

DIRECTIONS OF TEACHER-STUDENT COOPERATION

This article examines the importance of teacher-student cooperation in the educational process and its various aspects. Teacher-student cooperation is not only about transferring knowledge, but also about the personal development of students, the development of creative thinking skills, and social responsibilities. The article emphasizes that education is not just about providing information, and highlights the role of teachers in actively communicating with students, shaping their way of thinking, arousing motivation and interest, and strengthening students’ independent thinking and creative problem-solving skills. The article also highlights the importance of teachers’ continuous self-development. Various aspects of teacher-student cooperation are important factors that stimulate the development of both parties. This cooperation serves the positive development of both teachers and students and forms an educational environment that will guide the future of society.

Transforming AI Chatbots for a Brainstorming Teaching Technique of Process Writing

This study investigated the impact of AI-driven brainstorming tools on process writing instruction and students' writing outcomes in the context of third-year Thai university students. A mixed-methods approach was employed to examine the effectiveness of AI-driven brainstorming tools, foreign English lecturers' preferences and comments towards AI-generated brainstorming results, students' preferences for specific AI chatbots, and the perceived challenges and facilitative factors experienced by students. The findings revealed that the intervention group using AI tools significantly outperformed the conventional group on two out of three assignments (People: p = .002; Things: p < .001), with ChatGPT emerging as the most popular AI chatbot (78.8%). Foreign English lecturers acknowledged the AI chatbots' strengths but preferred students' brainstorming results. Overreliance on AI for idea generation was identified as the most concerning challenge (M = 4.62), while enhanced creativity (M = 4.53) and increased idea generation (M = 4.51) were the most appreciated facilitative factors. The study demonstrates the potential of AI-driven brainstorming tools to revolutionize process writing instruction and highlights the importance of striking a balance between leveraging AI benefits and fostering students' independent thinking and creativity skills.

Cultural Perceptions of Parenting and Parental Empowerment: A Sociological Study of Shifting Norms in Urban and Rural Pakistan

This study explores the cultural perceptions and practices of parenting in urban and rural Pakistan, focusing on how traditional values and modern influences shape parenting styles and parental empowerment in these distinct settings. The research also compares shifting parenting norms, assessing the socio-economic, cultural, and gender dynamics that influence parenting decisions. A mixed-methods, cross-sectional research design was employed, combining qualitative (semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions) and quantitative (surveys) data collection methods. A purposive sample of 230 parents (115 from urban areas like Lahore and 115 from rural areas such as Bahawalpur and Multan) was selected based on gender, socio-economic status, and geographic location. The study's findings reveal significant differences in parenting practices and empowerment across urban and rural settings. Urban parents exhibited higher levels of parental empowerment, with greater access to resources and decision-making authority, while rural parents faced challenges in these areas. Urban parenting was characterized by a greater emphasis on independent thinking, emotional expression, and gender equality, with a preference for modern parenting practices influenced by education and media. In contrast, rural parenting remained more traditional, emphasizing respect, obedience, and the involvement of extended family, with a stronger adherence to gender roles. The results highlight the evolving nature of parenting in urban areas, driven by socio-economic factors and modern influences, while rural areas maintain more rigid, culturally embedded norms.

CONDITIONS FOR THINKING AND INDEPENDENT THINKING IN STUDENTS

Thinking or reflection is considered as the highest form of mental activity, intelligence, etiquette and conscious behavior of a student. Independent thinking is a tool for cognition of the surrounding, social environment and reality, as well as the main condition for the rational and effective implementation of large-scale mental activity of a student.

DEVELOPING INDEPENDENT THINKING IN PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS THROUGH LOGICAL PROBLEMS

This article highlights methods for developing independent thinking skills in primary school students through logical problems. It presents several logical problems along with their solutions.

Preschool Education and Maria Montessori: A Review

Maria Montessori is one of the prominent philosophers in the field of early childhood education, noted for her innovative perspectives and contributions. In this paper, the researcher aimed to investigate Maria Montessori’s educational philosophy as it pertains to preschool education, with a specific focus on the model she developed, the principles she advocated, the curriculum derived from her philosophy, and the teaching methods she recommended. Additionally, the article evaluated the perspectives of other philosophers on Montessori’s preschool model and assessed the impact of her insights on the evolution of preschool education. The researcher employed a qualitative approach, drawing upon existing studies conducted by other scholars in the field of preschool education. The findings indicated that Montessori’s educational philosophy presents a distinct and innovative approach to preschool education. Her model, characterized by foundational principles, a thoughtfully designed curriculum, and effective teaching methodologies, has marked a significant advancement in the discipline. Moreover, the research illustrated that Montessori’s approach fosters independent thinking among students while enhancing their sensory awareness, self-esteem, and social skills. While her work has been influenced by other prominent figures in the field, Montessori has established a unique educational philosophy that stands independently. It is also important to note that critiques of her model often originated from a superficial understanding of her philosophical framework. Montessori’s philosophy has served as an exemplary model for preschool education, advocating for a child-centered learning environment that emphasizes the collaborative involvement of parents and educators, as opposed to a narrow focus on assessment-driven standards.

Formation of functional literacy at primary school

In the present day, general education schools are confronted with the task of equipping students for real-world experiences, placing a strong emphasis on fostering independent thinking among primary school children. This essential behavioral trait is closely linked to the concept of functional literacy. Pedagogical design of modern school education undoubtedly plays an important role in creating an effective educational environment. Given the diversity of children and their needs, it is important to create educational programs that will stimulate interest in learning, develop critical thinking and creative skills. It is also important to use modern technologies and teaching methods to achieve optimal results. The formation of basic functional literacy skills is the basis for the school community safety, ensuring the fulfillment of adaptive, developmental and educational functions. It can also be noted that there is a connection between the formation of functional literacy and increasing technological independence. The article examines a range of difficulties that help primary school educators identify possible problems and overcome barriers in fostering functional literacy in young learners. It outlines educational scenarios closely tied to fostering independent thinking, which is a key component of functional literacy.

The Enlightenment of Hu Shi’s Literary Wisdom on Modern Education: Language, Thought, and Humanistic Spirit

Hu Shi’s literary wisdom is actually important for changing modern Chinese social thoughts and literary ideas. It also has a great impact on education. By promoting the Vernacular Movement, Hu Shi made literature more relevant to normal people. He encouraged innovative ways of teaching language and moved away from traditional classical Chinese. This made education more accessible and practical for the general population. The popularization of vernacular education not only improved students’ language expression skills but also increased their interest in and effectiveness of learning. At the same time, Hu Shi’s literary criticism emphasized emotional expression and the analysis of social realities, fostering students’ critical thinking and independent exploration. He suggested that students should think carefully about the thoughts and emotions behind literary works. This may help them improve their ability to analyze issues and question traditional beliefs. Furthermore, Hu Shi focuses on the importance of a humanistic spirit and moral education, arouses students’ emotional resonance with literature, and helps them establish a correct outlook on life and values. He thinks that the humanistic spirit is the main component of education. By learning literature, students can get a broader mind and a deeper understanding of culture. In summary, Hu Shi’s thoughts about literature not only helped boost literary creation but also offered valuable enlightenment for modern educational theory and practice. His ideas have created new ways for education, helping to develop future talents equipped with independent thinking, critical reasoning, and deep humanistic qualities.

The Challenges of Critical Thinking in the Era of Artificial Intelligence

I argue that critical thinking is based on active learning, engaged independent thinking, and examining all information including recently impactful ChatGPT and other AI sources. Thoughtfully questioning what is being learned as well as critically and creatively analyzing and evaluating information such as AI is necessary to gain a deeper understanding as an effective thinker. Critical thinking pedagogy should also promote “portability” and citizenship, including information-based online multimedia literacy such as AI, as well as employment and professional information. This means becoming a critical thinker inside and outside the classroom and take what is learned into our personal, public, and professional lives. The article begins with an examination of four discrepancies or issues related to critical thinking in higher education. The critical thinking literature and Kenedy’s Model of Cyclical Critical Thinking will then be considered. This will be followed by the discussion and summary regarding suggested guidelines for critically evaluating AI. Finally, conclusions regarding further work including pedagogical models for teaching critical thinking in the era of AI and other future work are considered.