Fostering Critical Thinking in EFL Classrooms: A Lesson Study Approach in Indonesian High School

Open

Adi F. Mahmud, Abdurrahman Hi. Usman, Suratman Dahlan, Nur Fadillah Nurchalis, Nurlaila Wattiheluw

2025 Theory and Practice in Language Studies Vol. 15 Issue 10 Article Cited by 0 SDG 4SDG 17 Quartile

Abstract

Using the Lesson Study approach, this study attempts to strengthen critical thinking skills in Indonesian high school EFL students. Utilizing a qualitative descriptive methodology, four instructional cycles were implemented with 100 students and four teachers at SMA Negeri 10 Ternate. Data were gathered through assessments of lesson plans and observations of classroom activities, utilizing Fisher's (2011) critical thinking markers. The results indicated a substantial enhancement in students' critical thinking skills, increasing from 37.5% to 92.5% across the cycles. This research introduces originality by illustrating the adaptation of Lesson Study within Indonesian EFL environments, where resource constraints and conventional practices frequently obstruct pedagogical creativity. Collaborative planning, multimedia technologies, and peer reflection were essential in promoting higher-order thinking skills. The research finds that Lesson Study is a successful and scalable method for fostering critical thinking in EFL classrooms, providing insights for future educational reforms in analogous worldwide contexts. © 2025 ACADEMY PUBLICATION.

Affiliations

English Language Education Department, Universitas Negeri Makassar, Indonesia; Universitas Muhammadiyah Maluku Utara, Ternate, Indonesia; Institut Agama Islam Negeri, Ternate, Indonesia; English Language Study Program, Faculty of Teacher and Training, State Islamic Institute of Ambon, Maluku, Indonesia

Research at a Glance

Premium content — register to unlock

Research at a Glance

Register to unlock

Topics & SDG Alignment

Premium content — register to unlock

Topics & SDG Alignment

Register to unlock

Collaboration

Premium content — register to unlock

Collaboration

Register to unlock

Author Profile (Selected)

Premium content — register to unlock

Author Profile (Selected)

Register to unlock

References Overview

Premium content — register to unlock

References Overview

Register to unlock

Journal & Source

Premium content — register to unlock

Journal & Source

Register to unlock

Metadata & Integrity

Premium content — register to unlock

Metadata & Integrity

Register to unlock