ENHANCING LEARNERS’ RESEARCH COMPETENCE: THE USE OF INTERACTIVE METHODS IN TEACHING THE COURSE RESEARCH METHODS

Abstract

The article examines the role of the systematic integration of interactive methods in developing students’ research competence during the teaching of the course Methods of Scientific Research in a pedagogical university. In today’s higher-education landscape, it is no longer sufficient to limit instruction to students’ familiarization with theoretical concepts; one of the key objectives is to prepare them to formulate a research problem, collect data, and perform analysis and interpretation. Drawing on constructivist and practice-oriented approaches to learning, the study explores the potential of project-based learning, case study, systematic reviews of scholarly literature, and the use of digital platforms (audio and video materials, online databases, and collaborative documents). The study is designed as a qualitative case study; data were collected from observation materials, semi-structured interviews, and reflective journals of students enrolled in the course. A triangulation-based analysis showed that interactive methods deepen students’ understanding of the stages of the research process, strengthen their ability to connect theory and practice, and enhance academic self-efficacy and a sense of responsibility. In addition, the findings provide a foundation for developing specific methodological recommendations, including updating course syllabi in research methods, improving modular assignments, clarifying assessment criteria, and systematically embedding interactive formats into faculty professional development programs.