Problem-based learning as a means of chemistry education effectiveness improvement at a medical university

The paper discusses the goals and objectives of problem-based learning, discusses methods of students’ cognitive activity and cognitive independence stimulation by practical problems solving. Problem-based learning is a necessary condition for increasing students’ motivation for self-study and self-education, contributes to the development of students’ cognitive abilities. Problematic interpretation of educational material by practical problems solving, integrated problems with designation of interdisciplinary connections suggest using of a partial search method to optimize students’ cognitive activity. The relevance of problem-based learning largely lies in its developmental orientation, including various types of situational problems solving in the study of the course «chemistry». Special attention is paid to problem-based learning through the case method, actualization of interdisciplinary connections as a didactic principle in teaching. The subject role of the teacher is actualized, which still remains central and coordinating, presupposes a creative approach to work, the presence of fundamental theoretical knowledge, intellectual baggage, global professional thinking and professional culture. The formulation of problematic situations requires innovative thinking, non-standard approaches to learning, contributes to a better understanding of their professional role, democratization and modernization of the educational process. Objective data on the advantages of problem-based learning for the development of students’ cognitive abilities, manifestation of subjectivity, activation of the acquired knowledge and their application in practice to solve real educational, educational-research and educational-professional tasks, development of systemic clinical thinking capable of providing a high level of training of a modern specialist are presented in health care.