Development of engineering specialties students’ research skills using the theoretical mechanics methods

Abstract

Developed is a new approach to the organization of practical training for undergraduate students of technical universities’ engineering specialties which contributes to forming their initial independent research skills. Сomparative methods of solving the classical dynamic’s problems are used for complex educational research ongoing immediately in the learning process. The considered example is given on the basis of one of the type mechanisms used in teaching basic engineering subjects. Presented is the series of interrelated problems where each subsequent one is logically built on the previous and contains further details in the form of individual tasks. The way to solve each task is repeatedly changed through applying different theoretical bases (theories, principles). The tasks structure allows changes into volume and content of the research in accordance with the curriculum. The research methodology key point refers to a comparative analysis of solutions obtained and techniques applied. The research organisation principles allow using the developed methodology not only in theoretical mechanics, but also other engineering subjects taught at the mechanical engineering faculties of universities and institutes.