The Importance of Developing Higher-Order Cognitive Competencies via the Implementation of the Phenomenon-Based Learning Approach

Abstract

Developing higher-order cognitive skills through phenomenon-based learning (PhenoBL) is a highly relevant and contemporary topic in educational research, with increasing significance in today’s knowledge-driven societies. The shift toward PBL as an approach for developing critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and other higher-order cognitive skills aligns with educational goals to prepare students for complex real-world challenges. The Role of PhenoBL in Cognitive Skill Development is to encourage students to inquire, investigate, and make sense of real-world phenomena. This process pushes students to learn content and to understand and apply it critically in varied contexts. As a result, higher-order cognitive processes such as critical thinking, creativity, and metacognition are developed. For example, when students are tasked with solving problems that do not have a clear or predefined solution, they must engage in deeper thinking, formulate hypotheses, analyze data, and synthesize information.