The Effect of a Teaching Strategy Based on Combining the 4MAT and Suchman Models in Developing Reflective Thinking and Cognitive Flexibility among Female Students of the Early Childhood Department at Taif University

The study aimed to identify the effect of a teaching strategy based on combining the 4MAT and Suchman models in developing reflective thinking and cognitive flexibility among students of the Early Childhood Department at Taif University. The researcher used the semi-experimental approach based on the experimental design of one group with pre-post measurement. The study's sample consisted of 50 students intentionally chosen from the Early Childhood Department at Taif University. To achieve the study's objectives, the reflective thinking scale of Kember and his colleagues, and the cognitive flexibility scale of Dennis and his colleagues were used after confirming its validity and reliability. The results of the study showed that there are statistically significant differences at the level of 0.05 in each of the two dimensions of contemplation and critical reflection from the dimensions of reflective thinking, and there are no statistically significant differences in each of the dimensions of familiar performance and comprehension, and the results of the study revealed that there are statistically significant differences a 0.05 in each of the two dimensions of flexibility The study concluded that there is a statistically significant direct correlation relationship at the level of significance a 0.05 between the variables of reflective thinking and cognitive flexibility. In light of the study's findings, the researcher presented several recommendations. The most significant of these include encouraging educators and faculty members to adopt teaching strategies that foster the development of reflective thinking and cognitive flexibility. Additionally, the researcher recommended that professional development programs for university faculty and general education training initiatives integrate strategies designed to cultivate learners who are capable of reflective thinking and adaptable problem-solving. Such programs should aim to prepare students to shift their thinking and approach challenges from multiple perspectives, ultimately leading to optimal solutions. The researcher also suggested conducting further studies to explore these themes in greater depth.
Keywords: 4MAT Model, Suchman Model, Reflective Thinking, Cognitive Flexibility, Mathematical concepts