STUDENTS’ RESEARCH ACTIVITIES IN THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS OF THE NEW UKRAINIAN SCHOOL

Abstract

This study analyses the theoretical and methodological foundations of organising pupils’ research activities in the New Ukrainian School and identifies its role in the formation of key competences and the personal development of learners in the context of contemporary educational reforms. The relevance of the study is highlighted by the need to implement a competence-based model of learning, focused on the development of critical thinking, creativity, independence, innovation and pupils’ capacity for lifelong learning and informed career choice. The conceptual foundations of inquiry-based learning have been analysed, along with the characteristics of implementing competence-based, activity-based and STEM approaches in the modern educational process, and their impact on the development of pupils’ research competence has been identified. Modern approaches to organising research activities through the development of independent learning skills, problem-based and project-based learning, support for creatively gifted pupils and the fostering of sustained motivation for scientific inquiry are summarised. It has been established that the systematic implementation of research-based teaching methods contributes to the development of cognitive activity, information, communication and digital literacy, critical thinking, the ability to analyse and interpret information, work in a team and present the results of one’s own work. It has been demonstrated that the integration of research activities into the educational process of the New Ukrainian School (NUS) fosters the development of competent, creative and competitive individuals, capable of innovative activity, self-fulfilment and effective functioning in today’s information society.