Higher-Order Thinking in Higher Education: A Conceptual Analysis

Abstract

Higher-Order Thinking (HOT) is an essential element of contemporary education, particularly in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), where students must cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity to succeed in an ever more advanced world. It is essential to promote critical and innovative thinking in 21st-century education to enhance students' future global competence in technology and interdisciplinary studies. This paper focuses on the methods used to promote HOT, such as inquiry-based learning (IBL), problem-based learning (PBL), flipped classrooms, authentic assessments, and technology integration. The study also calls for curriculum reforms and faculty development at HEIs to bring in HOT to better adapt students to the HEI system to maximise their academic and professional performances. Bridging the gap for practitioners, this paper helps build competency-based, student-centric learning spaces in higher education by discussing barriers and opportunities that HOT create.