The article focuses on the problem of developing students' critical thinking skills, which help them become independent learners. Analysis of research works of educators and scholars enable the authors to reveal qualities, necessary for students to enhance their critical thinking skills and become independent learners. Different points of view on the problem are given. The authors pay attention to the big role of command, team work. They consider project technology as one of its varieties, directed to improvement of learners creative and cognitive potential. The authors conclude that proper organization of independent work contributes much to development of students' critical thinking, reflective skills.