Prof. dr. Boris Antić

Critical thinking in science means the ability to distinguish facts from assumptions, analyzing data without bias, and asking questions that lead to deeper understanding. Through critical thinking, scientists make discoveries that change our perspective on the world. Critical thinking represents the foundation upon which the entire scientific method is built. Without the ability to think critically, scientific progress would be significantly limited, and our ability to solve problems, innovate, and build a sustainable future would be diminished. NANO-THINK project (Teaching critical thinking in science through nano-learning and virtual exchange principles) is dedicated to developing a specialized learning program that actively encourages the development of critical thinking in various scientific disciplines. By utilizing distance learning technology and concept of nano-learning, the project aims at providing an efficient and unique learning experience. This paper presents key results of the GAP analysis conducted on a sample of 585 students and 218 teaching staff from Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as further steps in this project. The activities are implemented in partnership involving the following institutions: Faculty of Health Studies from Rijeka, which is also the project coordinator, the Nikola Tesla Institute from Belgrade, University of Donja Gorica, Medical Faculty from Graz, International Burch University, the Verlab Institute from Sarajevo, company B-Solutions from Tivat and the International Academy of Science and Arts in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Keywords: critical thinking, science, education, nano-learning, distance learning, virtual exchange