The development of critical thinking through the involvement of pupils in competitive robotics (from work experience)

Abstract

Problem and purpose. An actual problem of the modern educational environment is the search for effective forms of training that have didactic potential in terms of intellectual development (system, critical and foresight thinking) along with creativity, teamwork, solving problems of training specialists of the future, support for professional orientation. The authors propose to use active involvement of students in project activities within the framework of competitive robotics activities to form critical thinking as a universal skill that meets the challenges of digital transformation. The methodology. The study was conducted at the robotics club «Palace of creativity-memorial» in Kirov, Russia. The experiment was attended by 13 students, participants of competitions, Olympiads of various levels. The G-signs criterion was used as a statistical processing method. Results. Clarifies the essence of the concept of "critical thinking" in the context of training specialists for the digital economy and substantiates the didactic potential of competitive robotics for the formation of critical thinking as a universal skill of demanded professionals of the future. The author describes the principles and directions of the mentor's support of students' activities in competitive robotics events. The system of work on a competitive project with the allocation of skills that are important for the formation of critical thinking is presented. Conclusion. Involving pupils in competitive robotics events contributes to the development of qualities and skills that determine a high level of research culture. Work on the competitive project will create additional conditions for the formation of critical thinking as a universal competency in the training of specialists in demand in the digital economy