INTERACTIVE LEARNING: METHODS AND PRACTICES OF ONLINE WORK IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE STUDIES

Abstract

Modern society is experiencing rapid changes that affect education. Challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have driven the integration of technologies into the educational process. Online education has become a response to these challenges, combining traditional teaching methods with digital tools. Blended learning allows the integration of the advantages of face-to-face and distance education, transforming the structure of the educational process and enhancing interaction between students and teachers. Innovative approaches based on communicative learning help to increase students’ engagement and motivate them for active participation. Students’ independent work, which includes both individual and group activities, is an integral part of modern education. Thanks to platforms such as Coursera, Mix, Kahoot, Padlet, and Pinterest, students gain access to interactive materials and complete tasks at their convenience. For instance, the Mix SumDU platform, developed by Sumy State University, provides educational materials, interactive courses, and tests. The article examines online education models, including synchronous learning (webinars, video conferences), asynchronous learning (access to materials anytime), microlearning (short modules), flipped learning (independent study of theory before classes), and massive open online courses (MOOCs). Platforms like Mix SumDU, Coursera, Kahoot, Padlet, English4IT foster the development of independence, motivation, and time-management skills. Surveys conducted at SumDU reveal positive perceptions of online education, with 99% supporting its integration. However, challenges remain, such as addressing copyright issues for audio and video materials, ensuring access to quality resources, and improving students' self-discipline. Blended learning opens new horizons for education, creating an innovative learning environment. SumDU's experience in implementing Mix platforms demonstrates the effectiveness of electronic resources in enhancing learning outcomes. Informatization of education fosters the development of key skills essential in modern society.