Strategies of forming students’ critical Thinking in the face of new technologies During biology lessons

Abstract

In the research the presentation of possibilities of forming students’ critical thinking about complex subject issues during ICT- aided genetics lessons at high school level was attempted. This paper reports research which was carried out during the last two years. It is a part of more extensive research connected with application of new technologies, especially information and communication technologies at biology lessons. However, it is also concerned with the influence of new technologies on the development of science and its educational implications. The theoretical part of research focused on the models of teaching and learning biology and strategies of forming students’ point of view and attitudes in the field of new technology. The practical part of research was connected with the organization of biology teaching and learning environment with ICT tools use and application of the selected teaching strategies support students’ questions, their new ideas and arguments. 240 students of experimental and control classes participated in the research (lessons, questionnaires, cards of activity, tests). The data are interpreted in view of the new concepts of teaching and learning and point to the fact, that the development of computer techniques creates a possibility to shape views and evaluate the consequences of various activities owing to e.g. the application of simulation methods; it also enables acquisition of knowledge unavailable when using traditional methods. The ability to quickly search for information that is necessary in everyday life and awareness of free choice popularize ICT tools. However, it is critical knowledge and creative attitude of people that are the basic condition for their fulfillment in the contemporary world. Among other things, what arises is a need for educating students as future users of Cyberspace. The conclusions are discussed on the basis of literature.