Methods of using problem-based learning in theoretical mechanics lectures
Authors: Vishtak Inna 
Published: March 2024

The article substantiates the need for the implementation of creative engineering thinking in students of higher education when studying the discipline "Theoretical Mechanics". Examples of problematic issues and methods of solving them using the analysis of the proposed hypotheses are given.

The purpose of the article is to justify the given method of using problem-based learning in lecture classes on theoretical mechanics using active learning methods.

The main goal of higher education is the formation of competences in learners, which will allow them to constantly develop and adapt to modern requirements in the conditions of constant development of industry. The main emphasis is placed not only on the assimilation of knowledge, but also on its creative application, the ability to solve new tasks, analyze different options and achieve optimal results. Solving creative engineering problems in the style of a business game or a game session reveals and reveals creative skills and abilities, significantly increases the individual creative potential of most of the applicants and contributes to the formation of professional production skills. The work of students in such classes includes a number of actions aimed at deepening knowledge, consolidating it in practical situations and developing personal qualities, such as independence, creativity, responsibility, work planning, the ability to quickly adapt to changes and make adjustments in the work process. Active participation of students in this process is also important, which contributes to their intellectual growth and development.

Problem-based learning is a method in education that actively involves students in finding, analyzing and solving real problems or situations that arise in the context of studying a specific topic or discipline. The main aspects of problem-based learning include:

- active participation of students – in problem-based learning, students act as active participants in the educational process. They are aimed at independent study of the material, problem solving and joint discussion.

- stimulation of critical thinking – promotes the development of critical thinking in students. They learn to analyze information, make hypotheses, solve problems and argue their opinions.

- collaborative learning – where group projects or tasks are often used, which promotes the development of communication skills, cooperation and mutual assistance between students.

- interdisciplinary approach – can cover different aspects from different disciplines, which allows students to consider the problem from different points of view and apply knowledge from different areas.

- development of independence and initiative – this teaching method stimulates independence and initiative of students. They learn to independently find information, formulate questions and find their own ways to solve problems.

- application of skills in real life – promotes the development of skills that can be applied in real life situations. It helps students understand how their knowledge can be useful in practical activities.

These aspects allow problem-based learning to be an effective learning method that promotes deep learning of the material and development of key competencies in students.