Art Integration as a Tool for Enhancing Critical Thinking in Social Science Education

Abstract: In the context of social science education, the development of critical thinking skills is essential for students to analyse and navigate complex societal issues. Traditional educational approaches often prioritize rote memorization over analytical thinking, leading to a gap in students’ ability to critically engage with social, political, and economic content. This study explores art integration as a promising interdisciplinary approach to enhancing critical thinking in social science education. By incorporating visual arts, music, drama, and creative writing into the curriculum, art integration fosters a dynamic learning environment that encourages creativity, critical inquiry, and reflective thinking. Through a mixed-methods research design, including quasi-experimental comparisons, pre- and post-tests, classroom observations, and case studies, this study investigates the impact of art-based approaches on students’ cognitive development. The findings highlight the potential of art integration to significantly enhance critical thinking skills, providing educators with effective strategies for curriculum design. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on interdisciplinary education and advocates for a holistic STEAM approach that bridges the gap between the arts and sciences, ultimately preparing students to become informed, empathetic, and engaged citizens.

Keywords: Art Integration, Critical Thinking, Social Science Education, Interdisciplinary Education, STEAM