Situational map: A strategy to develop critical thinking in the teaching of scientific research

Abstract

The objective of the study is to support students in the rational, logical, and analytical process that they perform when faced with a scientific problem. This study uses qualitative methodology as its purpose is to present the strategy as learning stemming from the process of analysis, which is rooted on how to detect scientifically the research problem in the field of social sciences. A statistical analysis is made on the use and application of the diagram in a sample of 27 undergraduate students who have used the situational map in the elaboration of their theses. The trend shows that 92.6% of respondents achieved concluding their research processes of thesis work, at the planned time, and their results were consistent with their hypothesis and/or purposes. The creation of this strategy is a support for students, who have not developed their ability to think critically and establish relationships between concepts and theories in the execution of scientific research.