This article comprehensively analyzes the theoretical and practical foundations of developing critical thinking in students of higher educational institutions. The main purpose of the research is to identify effective pedagogical mechanisms for forming critical thinking competence in the educational process. The work substantiates the role and importance of problem-based learning, interactive methods, debates, case studies, and media education technologies. It also highlights methodological approaches aimed at developing students' analytical thinking, reasoning, and independent conclusion-making skills. The research results show that when interactive approaches are applied, students' learning activity, level of independent thinking, and ability to solve problematic situations increase significantly. The article proposes an effective model for developing critical thinking.

critical thinking, interactive methods, problem-based learning, media education, analytical thinking, independent decision, pedagogical technologies, competence

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