QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF CRITICAL THINKING IN PROMOTING INDEPENDENT LEARNING

Abstract

This study examines how autonomous learning develops students' critical thinking. Independent learners are more willing to collaborate, exchange ideas, and challenge their classmates, which leads to a deeper comprehension of the content. This study shows the importance of autonomous learning in critical thinking and reflection. Independent learning lets students explore topics of interest, find connections, and form their own conclusions. This approach helps kids develop independent reasoning, critical thinking, and evidence evaluation. The researcher emphasises the importance of critical thinking in independent learning and suggests that well-structured independent learning experiences increase students' critical and reflective capacities. Through collaborative learning, project-based learning, and independent study, educators can develop students' creative and cognitive capacity, preparing them to learn independently. The research used classroom observations and semi-structured interviews with tenth-grade English instructors at SMA Negeri 16 Palembang. The findings showed that structured autonomous learning helps pupils develop critical thinking. Students engaged and understood more throughout classroom activities.