INTEGRATION OF SIMULATIONS AND MATHEMATICAL MODELING IN THE TRAINING OF METALLURGICAL SPECIALISTS: EXPERIENCE AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

The article studies the modernisation of natural and mathematical sciences teaching for the metallurgical specialists training through the integration of digital simulations and mathematical modelling, particularly using the PhET platform. The relevance of this approach is based on the need to provide practice-oriented learning that allows students to effectively analyse complex technological processes of metallurgical production and at the same time increases interest in fundamental disciplines that are traditionally perceived as abstract.The article highlights the specific features of metallurgical training that require students to not only have theoretical knowledge but also the ability to work with multifactorial models, predict the consequences of physical and chemical processes and make evidence-based technological decisions in conditions of limited resources and high responsibility. It is emphasised that the effectiveness of the professional activity of future metallurgists is largely determined by an understanding of the physical and mathematical foundations of metallurgical technologies. The research methodology is based on a combination of theoretical methods (literature analysis, comparative study) and empirical methods (survey, observation, pedagogical experiment). In the experimental groups, students carried out PhET simulation tasks, modelled technological processes, and analysed parametric changes and their impact on metal properties. Observations showed an increase in students’ activity, initiative and analytical thinking, and survey results confirmed a positive response to this approach.The publication provides examples of educational cases and offers practical recommendations on how to implement simulations and modelling in the educational process. It is concluded that the combination of digital simulations and mathematical modelling effectively contributes to the formation of professional competencies of future metallurgical engineers in the modern digital education environment.