Educational trends and their impact on the development of students' critical thinking in research activities

Abstract

In the conditions of dynamic globalization and digitalization in the modern world, the relevance of the development of critical thinking is gaining strategic importance. This competence is fundamental to data verification and to the development of effective algorithms for problem-solving and decision-making within the framework of both the educational process and practical professional activities. The purpose of the article was to identify modern educational trends and analyze their impact on the development of critical thinking of higher education students. To achieve the set goal, theoretical research methods, in particular, analysis, synthesis, generalization and systematization of scientific sources, were used, which allowed substantiating the essence of the concepts under study. As a result of the study, it was found that critical thinking has a direct impact on the development of independence, responsibility and social competence among higher education students, on the development of creative potential and, in general, on improving the quality of education. It was established that the effective development of critical thinking is facilitated by pedagogical approaches such as problem-based learning, research-based learning, project-based learning, and the use of interactive and digital tools. One of the most effective research activities was identified as writing scientific papers, since in this process, students are faced not only with the need to collect information from various sources but also to analyze it critically. It is emphasized that the integration of artificial intelligence tools into the educational process not only modernizes students' research activities, but also creates additional opportunities for the development of their critical thinking through in-depth analysis, interpretation and evaluation of information. The use of digital platforms and social media stimulates students to independently analyze information, assess the reliability of sources, synthesize knowledge and formulate well-founded conclusions. It is concluded that the development of critical thinking among higher education students during educational and research activities is a natural result of the implementation of modern educational trends and requires the targeted application of appropriate pedagogical strategies.