THE CONCEPT OF PRACTICAL COMPETENCE IN EDUCATION AND THE THEORY AND PRACTICE OF PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF STUDENTS MAJORING IN BIOLOGY

Abstract

Modern education aims not only to provide theoretical knowledge but also to develop students’ practical competence, especially in the field of natural sciences such as biology. The concept of "practical competence" encompasses the abilities, skills, and readiness to apply knowledge in real and professional situations. According to J. Raven [1], competence is a combination of abilities, knowledge, and attitudes required for effective performance of professional tasks.

According to V.A. Slastenin [2], practical competence is the readiness and ability of an individual to carry out professional activities under conditions close to real working environments.

According to M. Mulder [3], professional competence includes cognitive, functional, personal, and ethical components that manifest during the performance of job-related tasks.

1. Serikov (2004) emphasized that competence reflects not only the level of knowledge and skills acquired but also the readiness to apply them practically in changing conditions [4].

In the Kazakhstani context, the practical competence of future biologists is understood as a combination of knowledge, skills, and value orientations ensuring the successful implementation of professional activities within educational and scientific settings. The practice-oriented nature of learning requires a reconsideration of the curriculum content, teaching methods, and interaction with the professional field.