Critical Thinking in Education: Pedagogical Strategies to Strengthen an Essential Competency in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59169/pentaciencias.v8i3.1856Keywords:
critical thinking; education; pedagogical strategies; artificial intelligence; active learningAbstract
Critical thinking is an essential competency for addressing the educational challenges of the twenty-first century, particularly in a context characterized by digital transformation and the integration of artificial intelligence into teaching and learning processes. The aim of this study was to analyze recent scientific literature on critical thinking in education by identifying its conceptual foundations, the most effective pedagogical strategies for its development, and the main challenges for its implementation. A narrative and analytical literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, and institutional reports published mainly between 2021 and 2026 from databases including Scopus, Web of Science, ERIC, SciELO, Redalyc, Dialnet, and Google Scholar. The findings indicate that active learning methodologies, such as problem-based learning, project-based learning, case studies, collaborative learning, and academic argumentation, effectively promote critical thinking. Artificial intelligence can also strengthen this competency when integrated through pedagogically meaningful activities that encourage analysis, reflection, and evidence-based decision-making. It is concluded that critical thinking should be established as a cross-curricular competency supported by innovative teaching strategies, formative assessment, and continuous teacher professional development.
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