TITLE:
Fostering Analytical Thinking through STEM: An Experimental Study with Student Teachers in Gaza
AUTHORS:
Ata H. Darwish, Sahar Darwish
KEYWORDS:
STEM Approach, Analytical Thinking, Proposed Program
JOURNAL NAME:
Creative Education,
Vol.17 No.9,
September
18,
2026
ABSTRACT: This study investigated the effectiveness of a proposed STEM-based program in developing analytical thinking among basic education female students at Al-Azhar University in Gaza. Using a quasi-experimental, single-group pre-posttest design, the program was applied to 18 fourth-level female student teachers. The researchers developed the instructional materials—including the proposed program, teacher’s guide, and student manual—alongside an analytical thinking test. Findings revealed statistically significant differences (α = 0.002) between pre- and post-test mean scores in favor of the post-application. Furthermore, the program demonstrated high educational effectiveness, achieving a McGuigan gain coefficient of 0.78, exceeding the acceptable 0.60 threshold. The study recommends integrating STEM strategies into pre-service teacher preparation and in-service training programs to enhance analytical thinking skills.