Optics experiments as a tool for developing critical thinking in physics education

TL;DR

This paper presents optics experiments designed to enhance critical thinking skills in physics students by engaging them in inquiry-based activities rooted in real-life problems, suitable for various educational levels.

Contribution

It introduces a series of pedagogically grounded optics experiments that foster critical thinking and inquiry skills in primary and secondary education settings.

Findings

Experiments effectively develop students' critical thinking skills.

Activities increase engagement and understanding of optical phenomena.

Suitable for formal and informal educational environments.

Abstract

Experimental activities are an essential part of physics education. In addition to conveying scientific knowledge, they play a significant role in developing scientific literacy, inquiry skills, and critical thinking. In today's world, where students are exposed to vast amounts of information of varying quality, the ability to analyse, evaluate, and interpret information correctly has become increasingly important. This paper presents a series of physics experiments in the field of optics, specifically designed to foster critical thinking at various stages of the inquiry process. The topic of optics was chosen deliberately, as many optical phenomena occur naturally in everyday life, are familiar to students, and stimulate their curiosity. At the same time, they provide space for formulating hypotheses, designing experiments, interpreting data, and evaluating alternative explanations. Each experiment begins with a real-life problem situation that students are expected to explore and resolve through their own investigative work. The tasks are structured to encourage discussion, require argumentation, and promote reflection on both the process and the outcomes. The proposed experiments are suitable for students at both primary and secondary school levels and can be implemented in formal as well as non-formal educational settings. The aim of this contribution is to demonstrate how well-designed and pedagogically grounded experiments can not only enhance the understanding of physical concepts but also systematically develop critical thinking skills - one of the key competencies of 21st-century education.