IDENTIFYING EFFECTIVE METHODS FOR TEACHING RESEARCH SKILLS IN HIGHER EDUCATION OF AFGHANISTAN

Аннотация

This research’s aim is to investigate the challenges and effective methods for teaching research skills in higher education of Afghanistan. It focuses on two main questions: (1) What factors stop students from learning research skills with current teaching methods? (2) What practices, resources, and tools best improve research skills? A mixed-methods approach was used, including surveys of 27 Master’s students, 16 faculty members, and interviews with 4 professors. The results indicated that teacher-centered methods hinder skill development. 53.5% of participants expressed dissatisfaction with those methods. On the other hand, 72.1% believe that interactive methods enhance research skills, although implementation of these methods is difficult. Limited resources and lack of support from institutions are main challenges. This study suggests to its readers that using the student-centered teaching, the usage of technology, and institutional support are essential for improving research education in Afghanistan. This research provides practical recommendations for policymakers and educators. It emphasizes practical learning and faculty development in order to promote critical thinking and research. Keywords: research skills, higher education, Afghanistan, teaching methods, student- centered learning.