Enhancing the Development of Students’ Critical Thinking and Scientific Reasoning Skills through the Implementation of the “5E Instructional Model” in the Process of Learning Sciences: Case of a Lebanese Private High School

Abstract

The cultivation of critical thinking skills is imperative for individuals, necessitating the integration of daily critical thinking strategies within educational settings. This research aims to investigate the transformative impact of the 5-E Instructional Model on the development of critical thinking skills among elementary learners. The study specifically focuses on the adoption and implementation of the five phases of the 5-E model during science classes in the elementary division of a private school. Employing a comprehensive approach, the study utilized both descriptive quantitative and qualitative methodologies to address specific research questions. The participant pool comprised 60 individuals, with 20 teachers and 40 students. Data collection occurred between January and May 2018, employing mixed-mode questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS. The results unequivocally demonstrated a positive impact of the 5-E Instructional Model on enhancing critical thinking skills among elementary learners at a private school. Notably, the study revealed a statistically significant relationship between the strategies implemented by science teachers during their classes and students' achievements in the science subject.