The Effectiveness of STEM Education Programs on Enhancing Critical Thinking Skills Among High School Students in Malaysia
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Educational Policy,
Critical Thinking
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Abstract
In the 21st century, critical thinking has become an essential skill, particularly in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This study investigates the effectiveness of STEM education programs in enhancing critical thinking skills among high school students in Malaysia. Using a quasi-experimental design, the research compares the critical thinking abilities of students enrolled in STEM programs with those in non-STEM tracks. The analysis, which includes both ANCOVA and propensity score matching, reveals that students in STEM programs significantly outperform their non-STEM peers in critical thinking assessments. These findings suggest that STEM education, when implemented with active and inquiry-based learning strategies, can play a crucial role in developing the cognitive skills necessary for success in the modern world. The study’s results have important implications for educational practices and policies in Malaysia, advocating for the continued investment in and refinement of STEM curricula
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