One of the main goals of contemporary education is not only the transmission of academic knowledge, but also the development of the learner’s abilities to understand, reinterpret, and change the world independently and responsibly. In this context, critical thinking is seen as a key skill that fosters the ability to analyze, make well-founded judgments, solve problems, and engage in responsible civic participation.

The development of critical thinking is gradually taking a more prominent place in international educational agendas. Globally recognized organizations such as the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), UNESCO, and the World Bank not only emphasize the importance of this skill but have also developed policy guidelines, tools, and assessment mechanisms to help countries integrate critical thinking into their education systems.

The models proposed by leading international organizations include curriculum revision, teacher training, assessment of students’ analytical skills, and the improvement of educational environments. Their impact is evident in countries where national educational reforms are often guided by international standards and experience.

The OECD’s Approach

The OECD has a profound influence on the field of education, particularly through its analytical tools, assessment mechanisms, and policy guidelines. Critical thinking is seen as a key skill for the future that learners must be prepared for.

In the OECD’s “Future of Education and Skills 2030/2040” report, critical thinking is identified as one of the core skills of the 21st century and is considered a fundamental component of modern education.

This approach aims to shape individuals who are not only academically competent but also socially and civically engaged.

Critical thinking is also included in the PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) evaluation system. The tests include tasks that require synthesizing information, analyzing sources, forming logical conclusions, and constructing arguments.

In the context of PISA 2018, critical thinking was indirectly assessed, particularly within the reading, science, and global competence sections. The report states: “High-performing students were able to distinguish between facts and opinions, critically engage with content, and identify potential bias in online sources”.

In addition to assessments, the OECD also provides policy recommendations.

These approaches are included in the OECD’s Learning Compass 2030 framework, which advocates for creating learning environments that foster individual thinking, mutual understanding, and creative problem-solving.

The OECD’s vision for educational policy is analytical and comprehensive, viewing critical thinking as an integral part of both individual development and the establishment of an effective democracy.

UNESCO’s Approach

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) views critical thinking as a cornerstone of inclusive, democratic education.

In the (Global Citizenship Education: Topics and Learning Objectives) guide, critical thinking is highlighted as an essential educational objective.

The document states: “The learners should develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will help them to analyze information, challenge assumptions, and engage in respectful dialogue”.

Critical thinking is also a key component in UNESCO’s Education for Sustainable Development Goals: Learning Objectives document. It is presented as essential for helping learners think in interconnected ways, analyze complex issues, and make responsible decisions. The report states: “Critical thinking is crucial for uncovering assumptions, questioning the status quo, and exploring alternative solutions to complex challenges such as climate change, inequality, and the promotion of peace”.

UNESCO’s program not only presents a clear vision but also provides a structured framework to guide curriculum development, including expected learner competencies, the role of teachers, and the organization of the learning environment.

Given the organization’s global mandate and its respect for cultural diversity, critical thinking in UNESCO’s approach is seen as a tool that connects education with human rights, peace, and social justice.

The World Bank’s Approach

The World Bank, as one of the largest financiers of education in developing countries, emphasizes the improvement of education quality by highlighting the development of foundational skills, among which critical thinking holds a prominent place.

The organization emphasizes that success in the 21st century requires not only the acquisition of knowledge but also the development of skills that enable individuals to perform non-routine intellectual and social tasks. In this context, and given the spread of digital technologies, critical thinking becomes especially important.

The World Bank also supports countries in improving teaching quality and teacher preparedness. To this end, it has developed a free classroom observation tool called Teach Secondary, which enables the assessment of teaching practices and promotes their enhancement.

In addition, the World Bank emphasizes the importance of developing skills that align with labor market demands. The organization notes that skills development can reduce unemployment, increase productivity, and improve quality of life.

In Conclusion

Critical thinking is no longer merely a significant trend within education systems — It has emerged as a key pillar of international education policies and a vital component of the future of education.

The initiatives of international organizations demonstrate that critical thinking is not seen as an isolated skill, but rather as a means to achieve broader educational goals. This approach fosters the development of more conscious, analytical, and socially engaged generations, transforming both the content of learning and the culture of schooling.

Lilit Avagyan