Problem-Based Learning and Critical Thinking Among Higher Education Students. A Systematic Review

  • Martha Mireya Manrique-Garcia Universidad César Vallejo, Trujillo, La Libertad, Perú
  • Edwin Ronald Pérez-Vasquez Universidad César Vallejo, Trujillo, La Libertad, Perú
  • Haymín Teresa Ráez-Martínez Universidad César Vallejo, Trujillo, La Libertad, Perú
  • Kiara Megumy Manrique-Garcia Universidad Privada de Trujillo, Trujillo, La Libertad, Perú
Keywords: Critical thinking, higher education, college student, (UNESCO Thesaurus).

Abstract

The overall objective of the research was to analyze problem-based learning and critical thinking among higher education students. Systematic review. A literature review was used as the methodology. The study was qualitative in nature and had a descriptive-analytical scope. It was complemented by a systematic review of scientific studies. It was based on the PRISMA statement. This facilitated the retrieval of articles published in the last five years (2021–2026) on the administration of public investments in universities in Latin American countries from the SciELO and Scopus databases, given that they contain articles of high scientific rigor and offer broad coverage. It is concluded that problem-based learning is highly effective in improving critical thinking among higher education students. Unlike traditional methods, this approach encourages students to actively participate in real or simulated situations.

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Author Biographies

Martha Mireya Manrique-Garcia, Universidad César Vallejo, Trujillo, La Libertad, Perú
Edwin Ronald Pérez-Vasquez, Universidad César Vallejo, Trujillo, La Libertad, Perú
Haymín Teresa Ráez-Martínez, Universidad César Vallejo, Trujillo, La Libertad, Perú
Kiara Megumy Manrique-Garcia, Universidad Privada de Trujillo, Trujillo, La Libertad, Perú

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Published
2026-05-15
Section
De Investigación