Aporte del método educativo Scout al desarrollo del pensamiento crítico de adolescentes entre los 10 y 15 años. El caso del Distrito Scout Pumapungo de la ciudad de Cuenca

Abstract

Given the realities of the contemporary world, it is incumbent upon society to acquire the cognitive and practical capacities necessary for addressing and resolving commonplace problems, highlighting the significance of fostering critical thinking abilities and effective problem-solving strategies. In this context, this research seeks to determine whether the Scout Educational Method contributes to developing critical thinking skills in adolescents between the ages of 10 and 15 in the Scout District of Pumapungo in Cuenca. Critical thinking improves personal understanding, stimulates questioning, and creates socially committed individuals capable of analyzing conflicts. For the development of this study, a qualitative methodology was used through interviews, focus groups with adolescents, and a documentary review. In addition, a questionnaire was administered to Scout leaders. The results showed, both in the documentation and in the discourse of the participants, that the Scout Educational Method develops skills such as autonomy, self-knowledge, decision-making, problem-solving, leadership, critical judgment, and seeks to form citizens who are more committed to their environment. As the main conclusion, it could be inferred that although the non-formal education system of the Scout Method does not explicitly refer to critical thinking, it does show a direct link to the ability of adolescents to analyze and solve everyday problems, fundamental skills of this type of thinking. Finally, based on this study, it is recommended that an intentional process be initiated to promote critical thinking through the Scout Method in the Pumapungo District.