Pedagogical Strategies for Developing Critical Thinking in Primary School Students Through Play-Based Technologies

Abstract

The article discusses the role of critical thinking as an integral cognitive competence that combines analytical, reflective and evaluative processes in the context of modern pedagogy. The purpose of the article is to identify effective pedagogical strategies for the development of critical thinking of primary school students by integrating game technologies into the educational process of primary school. The paper uses such general scientific methods as analysis, synthesis, specification, and generalization. The results of the study analyze the peculiarities of the development of critical thinking of primary school students, taking into account the psychological and pedagogical characteristics of their age, which determine the level of cognitive maturity and ability to analyze. Particular attention is paid to pedagogical strategies and methods of stimulating critical thinking through game technologies. Such methods as LEGO’ s Six Bricks, lapbook, Six Hats, brainstorming, and other interactive approaches that promote the development of logical thinking, imagination, comparative analysis, and argumentation are considered. Game-based methods not only increase interest in the educational process, but also actively engage students in cognitive activities, which gives them the opportunity to apply the acquired knowledge in new conditions, solving problems creatively and constructively. The role of simulations, quests, and role-playing games in the development of critical skills, such as the ability to predict consequences and evaluate alternatives, is considered. These methods contribute to the development of analytical thinking and reflective abilities in students, which is important for successful social adaptation and self-development. A special role is played by computer games, which are actively integrated into the educational process as tools for developing critical thinking, imagination, and analysis skills. Given the modern requirements of education, practical recommendations for the integration of game methods into the educational process are proposed, which provide for the gradual complication of tasks in accordance with the level of preparedness of students and their age characteristics. The conclusions state that game methods are a powerful tool not only for the development of critical thinking, but also for creating a comfortable psychological environment for cognitive activity. They contribute to the formation of positive social skills that are important for the successful adaptation of students in a rapidly changing world.