UDC: 
377.5
Tropnikova Valeriya V.
Lecturer, Novosibirsk Medical College, Novosibirsk State University of Economics and Management, v.v.tropnikova@edu.nsuem.ru, Novosibirsk

Extracurricular Activities in Chemistry as a Structural Component of the Digital Subject-Specific Information Environment

Abstract: 
This article addresses the pertinent issue of enhancing the effectiveness of chemistry instruction within the system of secondary vocational medical education. It examines the potential of extracurricular activities as an integral structural component of the educational environment, which directly influences student motivation and professional development. The purpose of this article is to provide a theoretical foundation and describe practical experience in implementing extracurricular activities in chemistry as a structural component of the educational environment at a medical college. These activities are aimed at increasing student interest in chemistry and fostering professional and research competencies among future mid-level medical professionals. Materials and methods. The study synthesizes the experience of organizing extracurricular work in chemistry at a medical college. The methodological framework was built upon practice-oriented, competence-based, and environmental approaches. A combination of methods was employed: theoretical analysis of scientific literature, design of extracurricular activities in chemistry, and piloting of such formats as professionally-contextualized problem-based cases, educational research projects utilizing digital tools (including a dedicated student community on social media platforms to support the learning process). Results. The study demonstrated that the use of diverse forms of extracurricular activities – such as participation in a chemistry club involving additional experiments with digital sensors (e.g., colorimeters); experimental quests in the chemistry department laboratories of a pedagogical university; practical familiarization with modern laboratory equipment in a research setting, including chemical and biological methods for cryopreserving cell lines, stem cells, and other samples; substance separation and purification in the development and quality control of pharmaceuticals at a biochemistry research institute; and immersion in microscopy and digital sensors while preparing conference projects – significantly enhances the comprehension of chemistry and develops students’ practical skills. Extracurricular learning pathways and interdisciplinary projects were found to compensate for the lack of classroom hours, fostering a deeper understanding, application of knowledge, and skills development. Conclusion. In conclusion, the findings indicate that purposefully organized extracurricular learning pathways, which incorporate a variety of activities, serve as a powerful resource for enriching the digital information and learning environment of a medical college. These pathways not only facilitate an in-depth study of chemistry but also contribute to effective professional orientation and personal development of students.
Keywords: 
extra-curricular activities; chemistry; structural component; digital information and subject environment
References: 

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