THE EDUCATIONAL AND COGNITIVE ROLE OF LABORATORY WORK IN MASTERING COMPLEX CONCEPTS OF THE PHYSICS COURSE

Abstract

This work examines the role and significance of laboratory work in the teaching of physics. The study demonstrates that laboratory experiments contribute to consolidating students’ theoretical knowledge, developing practical skills, and forming research-oriented thinking. The pedagogical and psychological aspects of laboratory work are analyzed, and the stages of its organization are outlined: preparation, performing the experiment, processing results, and drawing conclusions. The didactic functions of laboratory work-visualization, consolidation, assessment, developmental, and educational functions are described. In connection with the introduction of STEM and STEAM approaches into the modern education system, the effectiveness of enhancing the content of physics laboratory work with digital technologies has been demonstrated. It is noted that virtual laboratories and computer modeling allow students to conduct experiments in a safe and engaging way. The study results show that laboratory work is an important methodological tool for mastering complex physical concepts, increasing students’ interest in the subject, and developing scientific thinking.