Milinskiy A.Yu.
MODERN APPROACHES TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF ENGINEERING THINKING IN THE PROCESS OF STUDYING MECHANICS
UDC 378
Milinskiy A.Yu.1 (Blagoveshchensk, Russian Federation) – a.milinskiy@mail.ru
1Blagoveshchensk State Pedagogical University
Abstract. This article examines modern scientific and methodological approaches to developing engineering thinking in the teaching of the mechanics section of a general physics course in technical and pedagogical education. The study was conducted as a systematic review of the scientific literature over the past five years. The analysis included peer-reviewed publications, meta-analyses, case studies, regulatory documents, and theoretical studies devoted to engineering education, active pedagogical technologies, and the integration of practice-oriented approaches into student physical training. The article presents a comparative analysis of modern concepts of engineering thinking as a systemic method for interpreting physical processes with a focus on designing technical solutions. Key areas for modernizing the teaching of mechanics are identified: the inclusion of engineering case studies, project- and problem-based learning, laboratory work with an engineering focus, interdisciplinary projects, and the use of digital and virtual educational environments. This article describes pedagogical conditions that facilitate the development of engineering and practical competencies in students, including the ability to model real mechanical systems, account for errors and tolerances, apply the laws of mechanics in project work, and work in a team. An analysis of the evidence base for the effectiveness of active learning methods is conducted, including the results of experimental studies and meta-analyses confirming their positive impact on the level of subject knowledge, motivation, and the development of critical thinking in students. The main limitations to the implementation of engineering-oriented methods are identified: resource, personnel, and organizational barriers, as well as insufficient methodological support for instructors. A conclusion is drawn about the strategic importance of integrating engineering thinking into the mechanics course as a prerequisite for improving the quality of training for future engineering specialists. Prospects for further research related to the development of methodological models for teaching mechanics adapted to the requirements of modern engineering practice are outlined.
Keywords: engineering thinking, mechanics, general physics course, engineering education, project-based learning, problem-based learning, active learning methods, physics education, engineering competencies, interdisciplinary projects, virtual laboratories, educational technologies.
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For citation: Milinskiy, A. Yu. (2026). Modern approaches to the development of engineering thinking in the process of studying mechanics. CITISE, 2, 628-637.(In Russian).
