The development of an instructional model based on research-based learning and argumentation approaches to enhance critical thinking skills for undergraduate students

This study aimed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of an instructional model integrating research-based learning and argumentation approaches to enhance critical thinking skills among undergraduate students. The research process consisted of two phases: (1) developing the instructional model and (2) studying its effectiveness. The target group consisted of 18 undergraduate students from a private higher education institution in Thailand, selected via purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using content and descriptive analyses. The findings indicated that the developed instructional model included four main components: (1) objectives, (2) principles, (3) instructional procedures, and (4) assessment and evaluation guidelines. The instructional procedures were organized into six stages: (1) problem identification, (2) solution exploration, (3) reception of arguments, (4) evidence augmentation, (5) verification process, and (6) structuring and discussion. The effectiveness study revealed a significant improvement in students’ critical thinking skills after participating in the instructional model, with a significance level of .01. These results underscore the potential of integrating research-based learning and argumentation approaches to enhance critical thinking among undergraduate students.