Comparing the effectiveness of participatory and traditional teaching methods on developing students critical thinking skills

Seyed Javad Hashemi Ardakani¹ Masoomeh Ranjbar² Roghayh shiri³

1) Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran
2) Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Payam Noor University, Abadeh Branch, Fars, Iran
3) Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Payam Noor University, Abadeh Branch, Fars, Iran

IOI Code : AAHC-ABZGKC
Publication : National Conference on Management, Commercialization, Knowledge-Based Economy and Investment for Production(impeb.ir)
Abstract :
    This article examines the comparative effectiveness of two teaching methods, participatory and traditional, in developing students critical thinking skills. Critical thinking, as one of the most complex and essential cognitive skills of the 21st century, plays a pivotal role in individuals academic and professional success. In this regard, educational systems are seeking to find the most effective teaching methods to develop this skill. The present study was conducted using a qualitative meta-analysis and secondary analysis of research data. The results of a review of more than 30 empirical studies and a systematic review between 2015 and 2024 show that the participatory teaching method has a much greater impact on the development of students critical thinking skills than the traditional (lecture-based) method. The participatory method significantly strengthens the components of critical thinking, including analysis, evaluation, inference, and decision-making, by creating an active learning environment, interpersonal interaction, group discussions, and collective problem-solving. However, there are challenges such as time management, differences in students knowledge levels, and the need for greater teacher preparation in implementing the participatory method. After the introduction, the following article reviews the theoretical foundations, research methodology, findings, discussion, and conclusion, and offers suggestions for the effective implementation of the participatory teaching method.

Keywords : critical thinking participatory teaching method traditional teaching method higher education cognitive skills