Strategies for developing critical thinking skills in students of technical specialities

The aim of study was to consider strategies for developing critical thinking skills in technical education students and explore various aspects of critical thinking skills development in effective interaction. Based on the observation of the activities of National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute”, a SWOT analysis was performed to determine the strategy for the development of critical thinking and training of technical specialists covering the following specialties: computer science and information technology, engineering, information security and cybersecurity. The integration of problem-based learning was discussed in detail as one of the key strategies to enable students to analyse real and simulated problems, evaluate alternative solutions, and substantiate student’s actions. The study also focused on interdisciplinary approaches that allow students to make connections between multiple fields of knowledge and apply various analytical methods. The study described the key strategies that can considerably improve the learning process in higher education. The role of teamwork and communication skills in the development of critical thinking was discussed. It was shown how joint discussions and debates contribute to the development of a critical view of problems and increase the ability to constructive criticism and self-reflection. Particular attention was paid to the use of modern technologies that give students the opportunity to experiment, learn from mistakes, and adapt knowledge to practical situations. Thus, the study described a comprehensive approach to the development of critical thinking skills of students of technical specialities, which includes a set of methods and tools aimed at strengthening professional competences and preparing them for the challenges of the modern world. The findings of this study can be used by teachers in higher education institutions to develop and improve curricula to integrate critical thinking into all courses