Deep learning approach: Teachers' strategies in stimulating critical thinking skills in AUDs
Keywords:
deep learning, critical thinking , early childhood, teacher strategiesAbstract
The development of critical thinking skills in early childhood is an important foundation in facing the challenges of the 21st century, but learning practices are still dominated by memorization (surface learning) which is less effective. This descriptive qualitative research aims to analyze teachers' strategies in applying the Deep Learning approach to stimulate critical thinking in early childhood through in-depth interviews with eight early childhood teachers and a review of related literature. The results revealed three effective strategies: (1) designing exploration-based activities and collaborative projects, (2) utilizing concrete media and interactive technology, and (3) providing process-oriented feedback. The main challenges include teachers' limited understanding of critical thinking indicators, a crowded curriculum, and minimal parental involvement. The study concluded that the Deep Learning approach has optimal potential if supported by: competency-based teacher training, curriculum simplification, and technology integration. Research recommendations include developing teacher training modules and evaluation models that focus on children's thinking processes.
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