The Mediating Role of Critical Thinking in the Relationship Between Creative Thinking and Reflective Thinking

Karafil B., KARAKUYU A.

European Journal of Education, vol.61, no.1, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 61 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1111/ejed.70360
  • Journal Name: European Journal of Education
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, IBZ Online, Education Abstracts, Educational research abstracts (ERA), ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), MLA - Modern Language Association Database, Public Affairs Index
  • Keywords: creative thinking, critical thinking, pre-service teachers, reflective thinking
  • Hatay Mustafa Kemal University Affiliated: No

Abstract

This study explores the mediating role of critical thinking (Cri-T) in the relationship between creative thinking (Cre-T) and reflective thinking (RT) among pre-service teachers. Within this scope, the structural equation model (SEM) was employed, involving a total of 504 pre-service teachers from four faculties of education in Türkiye, selected through convenience sampling. The ‘Critical Thinking Scale’, the ‘Reflective Thinking Scale’ and the ‘Creative Thinking Scale’ were used as data collection tools. In the data analysis, correlation analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and regression-based mediation analysis via Hayes' PROCESS macro were used. In addition, bootstrap estimates of the indirect effect, beta coefficients, 95% confidence intervals and effect sizes were also calculated. The results indicated strong positive correlations between Cre-T and both RT and Cri-T, and a moderate positive correlation between Cri-T and RT. Furthermore, Cri-T was found to fully mediate the relationship between Cre-T and RT.