PRACTICAL LESSONS IN UKRAINIAN HISTORY CLASSES AS AN IMPORTANT FACTOR IN DEVELOPING CRITICAL THINKING AMONG SENIOR SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

The organization of the modern educational process requires changes in methods, tools, and approaches aimed at fostering active cognitive engagement among students during history lessons. This article explores the specific features of implementing practical activities in Ukrainian history classes in senior school as an effective means of developing students' critical thinking. The purpose of the study is to analyze practical experiences in cultivating critical thinking among senior students through the completion of hands-on tasks during Ukrainian history lessons. To achieve this goal, the article outlines tested teaching methods that enhance the effectiveness of students analytical skills development. It also examines the formation of critical thinking abilities in senior school students within the framework of the competence-based approach. The concept of a practical lesson is characterized, highlighting its core elements: solving cognitive tasks, enhancing the ability to work with various sources, and presenting the outcomes of students independent creative activity. Methodological and practical techniques for organizing and conducting practical lessons in Ukrainian history have been refined. Special attention is given to the authors original approach to implementing practical history activities based on critical thinking development strategies. The study confirms that incorporating problem-based tasks into practical history lessons plays a vital role in fostering critical thinking and stimulating students cognitive activity. The development of students academic skills should result not only in the acquisition of knowledge (concepts, facts, names, relationships) but also in the formation of key and subject-specific competencies. This approach supports the development of senior students critical thinking skills, independent learning, creative problem-solving, understanding of the learned content, and the ability to apply acquired knowledge and skills in real-life situations.