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THE ROLE OF CRITICAL THINKING IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Student:
Fariza Husniddinova
Kimyo International University in Tashkent
Scientific Adviser:
Maftuna Nurova,
Teacher of English Language Department,
Kimyo International University in Tashkent
Annotation
In both education and work, critical thinking is very important. It helps people
make better decisions, solve problems, and stay motivated. This article explains how
critical thinking supports student success in higher education. It also shows how
motivation and thinking skills work together, especially when using modern tools like
artificial intelligence (AI). The article shares different theories of motivation and
explains how students can use critical thinking to study better, stay focused, and
prepare for the future (Paul & Elder, 2014).
Keywords:
critical thinking, higher education, motivation, cognitive skills,
learning, AI, problem-solving, decision-making
Introduction
Today, the world is changing quickly, and students need more than just
knowledge to succeed. They also need to think deeply, question ideas, and find good
solutions to problems. This is called critical thinking (Paul & Elder, 2014). In higher
education, critical thinking helps students to understand information better, solve
problems, and make smart choices. It also supports motivation and helps students keep
working hard even when learning is difficult. Students who develop this skill early in
their education are more prepared to deal with challenges in both academic and real-
world situations.
The Importance of Critical Thinking in Education
Critical thinking means looking at a situation carefully, asking questions, and
using logic to find answers. In universities, students read many texts, do research, and
write essays. If they think critically, they can understand the ideas better, find the main
points, and give their own opinions (Paul & Elder, 2014).
Critical thinking also helps with group work. Students can listen to others, give
feedback, and explain their own views clearly. This builds strong communication and
teamwork skills, which are important in real jobs too. It teaches students how to agree
and disagree respectfully, which is an essential part of professional and social life.
Moreover, critical thinking improves creativity. When students learn how to ask good
questions and think outside the box, they are more likely to come up with original ideas.
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These ideas can be used in presentations, research papers, or projects that have real-
life impact.
Motivation and Critical Thinking
Motivation is the reason why people do something. There are two types of
motivation:
-
Intrinsic
motivation
(doing
something
because
you
enjoy
it),
- Extrinsic motivation (doing something for rewards like grades or money) (Deci &
Ryan, 2000).
Critical thinking helps students understand what motivates them. For example, a
student may study hard because they want to get a good job (extrinsic), or because they
love the subject (intrinsic). A critical thinker knows both are useful and finds a good
balance (Ryan & Deci, 2017).
Also, when students use critical thinking, they can evaluate their progress better. They
are more likely to reflect on what methods work best for them and make changes when
something is not working. This reflection leads to personal growth and helps students
become independent learners.
Theories of Motivation and Their Connection to Thinking
There are many theories that explain why people feel motivated:
1. Instinct Theory – People act based on natural feelings. For example, a student might
feel curious to learn. But this is not enough alone. Critical thinking helps turn curiosity
into real learning.
2. Drive-Reduction Theory – People want to reduce discomfort. For example, if a
student feels stressed before exams, they will study. But critical thinking helps find
better and healthier ways to prepare (Schunk, Pintrich, & Meece, 2014).
3. Incentive Theory – People are motivated by rewards like good grades. But too much
focus on rewards can make students forget about real learning. Critical thinking helps
them focus on what really matters (Pink, 2009).
4. Cognitive Approach – This theory says our thoughts affect our actions. Students who
believe they can succeed are more likely to do well. Critical thinking helps them
understand their own thoughts, set goals, and make plans (Schunk, Pintrich, & Meece,
2014).
The Role of Critical Thinking in AI-Based Learning
Nowadays, many students use AI tools like apps or websites to learn. These
tools can help with grammar, vocabulary, or pronunciation. But students must know
how to use them correctly. For example, AI cannot understand culture or emotions.
Critical thinking helps students see the good and bad sides of technology, and use AI
as a tool, not a replacement for learning (Lu, 2018).
Furthermore, AI may provide fast answers, but it cannot judge whether those answers
are ethically or logically correct. A critically thinking student can recognize when the
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ISSN:3030-3613
information needs to be checked or confirmed. In this way, students learn not only
how to use digital tools but also how to think independently and not depend only on
machines.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Critical Thinking in Higher Education
Advantages:
- Helps students make smart and logical decisions.
- Improves problem-solving skills.
- Increases self-confidence and motivation.
- Builds deeper understanding of topics.
- Supports communication and teamwork.
- Helps students use modern technology wisely.
- Encourages creativity and innovative thinking.
- Prepares students for leadership roles by improving judgment.
Disadvantages:
- Takes more time and energy.
- Can cause overthinking and confusion.
- May not fit with traditional learning styles.
- Sometimes makes students feel tired or stressed.
- Can cause conflict with others who don’t like being questioned.
- Requires a lot of practice and support to master fully.
Conclusion
Critical thinking is one of the most important skills in higher education. It helps
students think clearly, stay motivated, and face difficult problems with confidence.
When combined with motivation, critical thinking leads to better learning and personal
growth. Universities should support students in developing these skills to prepare them
for a successful future in work and life (Paul & Elder, 2014).
As technology becomes more common in education, students will face even more
challenges. That is why critical thinking is necessary to use these tools effectively. It
is not only about academic success but also about becoming a thoughtful and
responsible person. In the future, students with strong thinking skills will have better
chances to lead, to innovate, and to create a positive change in the world.
References
1.
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The "what" and "why" of goal pursuits: Human
needs and the self-determination of behavior.
2.
Schunk, D. H., Pintrich, P. R., & Meece, J. L. (2014). Motivation in Education:
Theory, Research, and Applications.
3.
Paul, R., & Elder, L. (2014). Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your
Professional and Personal Life.
T A D Q I Q O T L A R
jahon ilmiy – metodik jurnali
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ISSN:3030-3613
4.
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-Determination Theory: Basic Psychological
Needs in Motivation, Development, and Wellness.
5.
Pink, D. H. (2009). Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us.
6.
Lu, X. (2018). Natural Language Processing and Intelligent Computer-Assisted
Language Learning (ICALL). The TESOL Encyclopedia of English Language
Teaching, 1–6.
7.
Folstad, A., & Brandtzaeg, P. B. (2020). Users' experiences with chatbots: findings
from a questionnaire study. Quality and User Experience, 5(1), 1–14.
