Effects of Critical Thinking Implementation on Enhancing of Teaching Quality

Abstract

Critical thinking is a training program for teachers in order to improve teaching and the educational approach to students. The aim of this research is to address the implementation of this training program from the viewpoint of students and teachers. In this paper, we investigated the effects of the application of critical thinking in raising the quality of teaching in 9-year schools in Kosovo. But this paper initially treats from the theoretical aspect, which as a training program is based on the constructive and progressive approach. This philosophy of education sees the student as a subject engaged in the acquisition of knowledge and positive school experiences. While for a more complete illumination of the research, we received the opinions of 517 students from schools where the philosophy of critical thinking is applied and from schools that still work according to traditional educational practices. Here we compare the opinions of students about the quality of teaching of teachers who have been trained with critical thinking techniques and strategies and of other students whose teachers have not yet received the aforementioned professional training. Regarding the effects of the application of critical thinking in improving teaching, through questionnaires we also received the opinions of 234 teachers trained in critical thinking and teachers who have not yet been trained in the approach and teaching strategies according to critical thinking. The use of critical thinking techniques and strategies has raised the teaching quality and mobilizes students in the active acquisition of knowledge, creating a positivist spirit and a stimulating learning environment. Also, students engage with awareness and full will towards achieving their successes. Through this new philosophical approach, educators have also contributed to improving the quality of students' learning and raising their learning results. At the same time, playing the role of instructor in the classroom, they initiate learning debates on environmental and social topics. This approach prepares students for lifelong learning by creating work habits and creative skills found for work and being active in their social environments.

Received: 25 August 2022 / Accepted: 27 October 2022 / Published: 5 November 2022