THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING (PBL) IN ENHANCING CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS AMONG STUDENTS

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) has emerged as a widely adopted student-centered instructional approach aimed at fostering higher-order thinking skills, particularly critical thinking. This study examines the effectiveness of PBL in improving students’ critical thinking abilities compared to traditional lecture-based instruction. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from secondary and tertiary-level students through assessments, surveys, and classroom observations. Results indicate that students exposed to PBL demonstrate significantly higher levels of analytical reasoning, problem-solving, and reflective thinking. The findings suggest that PBL promotes deeper learning by engaging students in authentic, real-world problems that require collaboration and self-directed inquiry. This paper contributes to the growing body of literature supporting innovative pedagogical approaches and recommends broader implementation of PBL in modern education systems.