Muratalieva Assel Aidoskyzy

Abstract

            In the digital age, fostering critical 21st-century skills—Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, and Creativity (4Cs)—is essential for preparing students to navigate complex global challenges. This study evaluates the role of digital tools, structured through the SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition) framework, in developing these competencies among university students. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected through an online survey involving 150 students. Results reveal that technology significantly enhances all four competencies, with tools like G-Suite, Zoom, and Scratch being particularly effective. While students perceived the higher levels of the SAMR framework (Modification and Redefinition) as transformative, challenges such as unequal access, insufficient training, and motivational barriers were highlighted. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to maximize the potential of digital tools in education. By advancing through the SAMR model and addressing existing barriers, educators can foster a more inclusive and impactful learning environment that equips students for the demands of the 21st century.