The two-year Scientific Research Project (SRP) titled "Examining the Relationships Between Cognitive Flexibility, Autonomy, and Critical Thinking: A Mixed Methods Study" conducted by the Learning and Teaching Center (ÖĞMER) at Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University (AYBU) has been successfully completed.
Project Purpose and Findings
The primary objective of the project, which examines the developmental processes of students who have been attending RALL 101-102 Language Learning Consultancy courses since 2022, is to scientifically demonstrate the impact of these courses on students' cognitive flexibility, learner autonomy, and critical thinking skills.
The results of the study demonstrate that learner autonomy develops in tandem with cognitive flexibility and critical thinking, advancing existing theoretical understanding of the dynamic relationship between autonomy, adaptability, and higher-order cognitive skills in higher education.
The quantitative data obtained in the project were also supported by qualitative feedback from students. Feedback such as, "This was the most enjoyable course I've taken in my entire university career, and I volunteered without any pressure," and "This course should be taught as a core course in all departments," demonstrated the value students place on the course.
In addition to Dr. Mine YİĞİTER, who led the project, thanks were also extended to Gamze Güven YALÇIN, who contributed to the research, course design, and implementation; Ebru Sınar OKUTUCU and Dr. Hatice KARAASLAN, who participated in the advisor training and data collection processes; Gökçe ARSLAN AŞAN, the advisor trainer, who contributed to the data collection process; and Dr. Mümin ŞEN, AYBU Secretary General and ÖĞMER Coordinator; and Dr. Daria ŞEN, Director of the School of Foreign Languages, for their support of the project.
An Important Step for the Future
This project, AYBU ÖĞMER's first BAP project, supports the university's mission of developing individuals who are autonomous, critical thinkers, and open to lifelong learning. The findings once again reinforced our university's commitment to evidence-based practices and its goal of contributing to learning processes through scientific research.
