THE ROLE OF COLLABORATIVE LEARNING IN DEVELOPING CRITICAL THINKING IN MIDDLE SCHOOL LEARNERS: STRATEGIES FOR PROMOTING LANGUAGE ACQUISITION AND TEAMWORK

This article examines the role of collaborative learning in fostering critical thinking among middle school learners, emphasizing its dual benefits in promoting teamwork and language acquisition. Collaborative learning creates opportunities for students to engage in meaningful discussions, solve problems collectively, and learn from peers. This approach enhances their critical thinking abilities while also supporting the development of communication and social skills. The article explores practical strategies such as group projects, peer teaching, and structured discussions that educators can use to design collaborative learning activities.