Authentic Learning Strategies to Engage Student's Creative and Critical Thinking

Abstract

Recent research reveals that graduates lack problem-solving skills and communication skills that are an integral part of industry demands. There is now a growing necessity to move towards an education system that can prepare graduates with important skills to enter the working world. In response to this, universities are now moving towards more authentic learning strategies that are student-centred and are able to provide students with the crucial skills they need. This paper presents a study that sought to investigate how efficient an authentic learning environment, with a project-based curriculum that is supported by multimedia and web technologies, can engage students' creative and critical thinking. Results showed that authentic learning strategies encouraged higher order thinking skills, made learning active, supported the development of important career skills and enhanced understanding. The positive results strongly encourage the use of authentic learning strategies to engage students' creative and critical thinking.