Landscape-ecological approach to the organization of scientific research activities of University students

Abstract

Introduction. The aim of the study is to comprehend the methodology of the landscape-ecological approach in the scientific activity of students in the conditions of its dynamic transformations and to develop a methodology for its implementation based on a level organization. A set of methodological provisions that characterize the universal features of the cognitive and practical-transformative activity of this approach is disclosed. The conceptual basis of the landscape-ecological approach integrates the natural-science, social, environmental aspects in the humanistic and holistic logic of cognition. It covers not only scientific concepts, but also value-semantic categories of sustainable development, forming a unified scientific picture of the world. The applied nature reflects the connection with real environmental problems and the possibilities of their successful resolution. The conjugation of the landscape-ecological approach and modern ideas about research student activity is revealed, the principles of its organization are substantiated. The position on the level structure of students' research activity is argued, the problem-referential, heuristic, creative levels corresponding to the subject preparation and cognitive abilities of students are determined.Materials and Methods. The study was carried out based on the results of the analysis of the research work of students at the Faculty of Natural Geography of the Minin University in the logic of its innovative changes, determined by modern requirements. The proposed system of methods of comparative analysis, comparison, generalization, conceptual modeling, level organization provided the necessary integrity, objectivity and heuristic conclusions.Results. Determination of the methodological foundations of the landscape-ecological approach in the organization of students' research work, which ensures the priority of complex, problem-oriented forms of cognition and creative activity, the development of the graduate's creativity, his professional competence and environmental culture. Development of principles for organizing research activities of students and methods for implementing the landscape-ecological approach in the educational practice of the university.Discussion and Conclusions. From the standpoint of modern scientific discourse, the variants of students' research work, combining classical and post-non-classical ideas of using the landscape-ecological approach, are considered. The advantages of the landscape approach and innovative features of student science, which are reflected in the developed methodology, are revealed. The proposed level structure of research activity contributes to the progressive movement of students from the problem-referential to the heuristic and creative level of cognition.