CC BY
25UDK 371.3
Baisova Gyulsina
master's degree, Webster University in Tashkent
Uzbekistan, Tashkent
THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON THE
DEVELOPMENT OF CRITICAL THINKING IN THE PROCESS OF LEARNING STEM DISCIPLINES
Abstract: This article examines the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the development of critical thinking among students in the process of studying STEM disciplines. It explores the concepts of critical thinking and STEM disciplines, as well as their interconnection. The analysis focuses on how AI facilitates a deeper understanding of subjects, supports analytical skills, and stimulates interest in scientific research. The benefits of integrating AI into the educational process and potential limitations are discussed. Examples of studies demonstrating the positive impact of AI on the development of critical thinking are provided.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence (AI), critical thinking, STEM disciplines, education, analytical skills, technology, learning.
INTRODUCTION
Artificial intelligence (AI) represents a powerful tool capable of transforming various spheres of life, including education. This is particularly relevant for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, which play a crucial role in developing innovative solutions and technologies. Education in these fields requires not only the assimilation of theoretical knowledge but also the development of critical thinking, which enables students to effectively analyze information, solve complex problems, and make informed decisions.
Critical thinking has become an essential skill in the context of information overload. Students encounter vast amounts of data and opinions, and the ability to filter and evaluate information becomes decisive in their educational and professional activities. Due to its capabilities in processing large volumes of data and analysis, AI can significantly support this process by providing students with tools for a deeper understanding of the subjects studied. Despite the obvious advantages, the introduction of technologies into the educational process raises certain concerns and questions. The
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aim of this article is to investigate the influence of AI on the formation of critical thinking in the study of STEM disciplines.
MAIN PART. THE CONNECTION BETWEEN CRITICAL THINKING AND
STEM DISCIPLINES
Critical thinking is a systematic and purposeful process that involves the analysis, evaluation, and interpretation of information. It is not merely a set of skills, but a distinctive approach to learning and problem-solving, where the ability to ask questions plays a crucial role. In developing critical thinking, students learn to formulate hypotheses and gather data that will help them gain a deeper understanding of the topics at hand. A key component of critical thinking is the ability to process the information received, analyze it from various perspectives, and draw reasoned conclusions. This process requires active participation from students in their learning, as well as a willingness to challenge existing ideas and assumptions. Such an approach allows for not only the absorption of information but also its practical application in solving real-world problems. Thus, critical thinking becomes an essential skill that is relevant in any educational field and helps prepare students for the challenges of the real world.
STEM disciplines represent a synthesis of four key areas of education: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These fields play an important role in preparing specialists capable of working in high-tech and scientific domains, which is especially relevant in today's rapidly changing society. STEM education focuses on the development of analytical and practical skills, enabling graduates to effectively tackle challenges related to innovation and scientific research.
Critical thinking and STEM disciplines are closely interconnected, as both aspects play a vital role in contemporary education and professional activities. Critical thinking aids students in analyzing, evaluating, and interpreting information, which is extremely important when studying natural sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics [1]. In STEM disciplines, the ability to solve problems and make informed decisions is essential, and it is critical thinking that enables students to approach tasks from various angles, identify logical errors, and recognize biases in their reasoning. For example, when conducting experiments or developing technologies, it
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is important not only to gather data but also to be able to interpret it using analytical skills.
Moreover, critical thinking fosters innovation by allowing students to create new ideas and solutions based on the knowledge acquired. This interaction between critical thinking and STEM disciplines forms a deeper understanding of the subject matter and contributes to the development of skills necessary for successful work in a rapidly changing world.
THE ROLE OF AI IN EDUCATIONAL PROCESSES AND ITS APPLICATION IN STEM LEARNING
By transforming traditional approaches to teaching and interaction between teachers and students, AI plays an important role in educational processes. It provides new opportunities for learning and the development of critical thinking. According to recent analytical data, the AI market in education is rapidly expanding due to advancements in technology and improvements in the student learning process. According to MarketResearch.Biz, the generative AI market in education is projected to exceed approximately $5,523 million by 2032, with a CAGR of 39,5% from 2023 to 2032 (fig. 1).
■ Administrators ■ Educational institutions
403.023 ^ ™ .¡¡Ml 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032
Figure 1. Generative AI in the education market, million dollars [2]
With AI, it is possible to analyze large volumes of data, adapt learning materials to the individual needs of students, and offer personalized recommendations. In the context of STEM education, AI provides new opportunities for personalized learning, enhancing the quality of the educational experience and making it more accessible.
One significant application of AI in STEM education is adaptive learning. This technology enables the creation of a more personalized learning process that takes into account the unique characteristics of each student. Such systems are capable of deeply ISSN 3034-2627 49 https://coldscience.ru
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analyzing students' successes and challenges by using data about their academic performance, learning preferences, and even emotional states. By utilizing machine learning algorithms, these systems can identify patterns in students' learning activities, allowing them to tailor the content of educational materials and assignments according to each student's knowledge level and learning style. For instance, if the system detects that a student is struggling with a specific topic, it can offer additional resources such as video lessons, interactive exercises, or explanations designed to meet individual needs.
This approach allows each learner to progress at their own pace, which is especially important in challenging subjects like mathematics and physics. While one student may easily grasp new concepts, another might require additional practice to solidify their understanding. Adaptive learning helps bridge the gap in preparedness by providing necessary support to those who need it while allowing more advanced students to delve deeper into the material at a higher level of complexity. Thanks to such systems, students can not only improve their academic performance but also build confidence in their abilities. Adaptive learning creates a more inclusive educational environment where every student has the opportunity to realize their potential and achieve their goals. This makes AI an essential tool in transforming the learning process, making it more effective and tailored to the needs of each student.
It is also used to create virtual assistants, who help students solve problems and understand complex concepts. These tools can provide instant feedback, leading to a deeper understanding of the material and increasing student motivation. The use of AI can facilitate access to educational resources by analyzing students' preferences and recommending relevant courses, articles, or videos [3]. This broadens the horizons of learning and allows students to delve deeper into topics that interest them.
In STEM disciplines, AI is also employed for simulations and virtual laboratories, allowing students to experiment in a safe and controlled environment. This provides practical experience that would otherwise be inaccessible due to resource or equipment constraints. The integration of AI into educational processes offers several advantages compared to other approaches (table 1).
Table 1. Comparative analysis of learning approaches [4, 5]
Advantage AI Traditional technologies Online courses and platforms
Personalizing learning Adaptation of materials to individual needs. Limited personalization, often a monotonous approach. Limited course customization for the user.
Automation of assessment Fast and accurate feedback assessment. Manual evaluation, slow process. Automated tests, but not always detailed.
Data analysis Deep Big Data Analytics. Limited analysis capabilities. Analytics based on user data, but less in-depth.
Stimulating critical thinking Generating questions and alternative solutions. Fewer opportunities to stimulate critical thinking. Often the structure is fixed, there are fewer opportunities for research.
Interactivity High level of interactivity and engagement. Limited interactivity in traditional learning. A variety of interactive elements, but often without AI.
Access to resources Extensive and diverse resources integrated into the system. Limited resources depending on the educational institution. Wide access to materials, but without personal adaptation.
Self-learning support Students can study at their own pace with adaptation. Fewer opportunities for self-study. Independent learning, but without in-depth needs analysis.
In the author's opinion, the comparative analysis demonstrates significant advantages of AI in the field of education. It provides high personalization of learning by adapting materials to individual student needs, which greatly surpasses the limited capabilities of traditional methods and online platforms. However, traditional methods also have positive aspects that are essential for a complete and quality education. The choice of a dominant learning strategy should depend on the specific situation and objective.
WAYS AI INFLUENCES THE DEVELOPMENT OF CRITICAL THINKING
IN STEM LEARNING
By contributing to the formation of critical thinking in the process of studying STEM disciplines, AI has an impact on various aspects of the learning process. One important area is data and information analysis. In the modern educational context, students face massive amounts of data, and the ability to process it effectively becomes crucial. AI provides learners with tools for visualizing and analyzing information,
helping to identify patterns, trends, and anomalies. For example, using machine learning algorithms, students can analyze experimental data, allowing them to make authentic conclusions based on facts [6]. This not only deepens their understanding of the subject but also develops critical analysis skills, making students more capable of independently reflecting on information.
Another direction is the evaluation of alternatives. During their studies, students can use simulations to test various hypotheses and scenarios. This allows them not only to see the consequences of their decisions but also to analyze how different approaches can lead to different outcomes. This approach develops the ability to critically consider various options and make informed decisions. Students learn not only to choose the most effective solutions to problems but also to justify their choices, which is a vital element of critical thinking.
The feedback provided by AI also plays an important role in the development of argumentation and critical thinking. Modern educational platforms can analyze students' work, pointing out flaws in their logic and reasoning. With instant feedback, learners can quickly recognize their weaknesses and work on them, improving their skills and approaches. This allows them to reflect more deeply on their arguments and develops the habit of critically evaluating their conclusions.
Stimulating questions and inquiry is another important aspect where AI demonstrates its capabilities. Interactive platforms can pose provocative questions to students, encouraging them to analyze topics more deeply and develop critical thinking skills [7]. When students are engaged in the active process of seeking answers, they become more invested in their learning and begin to develop their research skills.
It is also important to note that AI supports an interdisciplinary approach, which is especially valuable in STEM education. It allows you to integrate knowledge from different fields, showing how they are interconnected. For example, students can apply mathematical models to solve engineering problems or use scientific principles to develop technological solutions [8]. This integrated approach fosters a deeper understanding and reflection on the material, enabling learners to see the bigger picture.
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Thus, AI significantly contributes to the formation of critical thinking in STEM disciplines through data analysis, evaluation of alternatives, feedback, an interdisciplinary approach, and the stimulation of questions. Together, these elements create an educational environment where students learn not only to acquire knowledge but also to actively reflect on and apply it.
One example of the positive influence of AI on the development of critical thinking in STEM disciplines is a study conducted at the University of North Carolina in 2022. The goal of this research was to investigate the impact of AI-based adaptive learning systems on the development of critical thinking among students studying STEM disciplines. The study utilized a platform that offered personalized tasks and feedback. As a result, students using the AI platform demonstrated a 25% improvement in critical thinking metrics compared to the control group. Additionally, 75% of students noted that adaptive assignments helped them better understand the material and develop skills in analysis and synthesis of information [9].
Another example is a study conducted at the University of California, which aimed to explore the impact of AI-based platforms on the development of critical thinking among students in STEM fields. The research emphasized how adaptive learning technologies could promote a deeper understanding of subjects and enhance analytical skills. Consequently, critical thinking skills improved by up to 30%. These examples confirm the importance of integrating adaptive technologies into the educational process for achieving deeper and more effective learning [10].
However, despite the significance of AI in the development of critical thinking within STEM disciplines, there is a likelihood of encountering a number of risks and limitations. First and foremost, excessive automation may lead to students becoming dependent on technology, which diminishes their motivation for independent learning. In such a dependency, learners may not recognize the necessity for in-depth analysis of information, relying on AI to solve problems. Furthermore, there is a risk of losing independent thinking skills. If students begin to use AI as their primary tool for problem-solving, it may result in a decrease in their ability to analyze and critically evaluate information independently.
It is also essential to consider the ethical and social issues associated with the implementation of AI in educational processes. Data privacy and usage concerns become significant challenges. Unequal access to technology may exacerbate existing social inequalities, while questions about how AI influences decision-making raise important aspects of accountability for learning outcomes. Thus, it is necessary to approach the integration of AI into the educational process carefully, to minimize these risks and limitations.
CONCLUSION
The development of critical thinking in the study of STEM disciplines is significantly impacted by AI. Its application in the educational environment not only facilitates access to information but also promotes the formation of skills in analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of data. It provides students with tools for a deep understanding of complex concepts and creates conditions for active participation in the learning process.
Successful integration of AI in education requires a balance between automation and active student engagement in the process. Educational institutions should strive to create an environment where AI serves not as a replacement but as a complement to traditional teaching methods, fostering deeper understanding and the development of skills necessary for future professional activities. Thus, a proper approach to using AI can significantly enhance the quality of education in STEM and prepare students for the challenges of the modern world.
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