Blended Learning in Surgical Training at Ternopil National Medical University: A Response to the Challenges of Modern Education

Abstract

The study aims to analyse the specifics and challenges that arise during the implementation of blended learning in the training of surgeons at the Ternopil Gorbachevsky National Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine (hereinafter - TNMU). The analysis and synthesis of modern scientific publications on blended learning in the education of surgeons presents the methodology of the study. The article highlights the experience of using blended learning for practical online classes. It evaluates the effectiveness of interactive, innovative technologies in forming professional and communication competencies in future surgeons at TNMU. It is emphasised that in modern conditions, improving the training of higher medical education specialists is becoming a key task to ensure the quality of healthcare services. The pandemic of coronavirus infection, and subsequently the war, confirmed that traditional teaching methods based on lectures, text materials and practical classes with the participation of patients are increasingly showing limitations in the effectiveness of the formation of complex surgical skills. It is concluded that blended learning at TNMU is now a component of the educational process. It provides training at the most convenient place and time and access to electronic knowledge bases. Such forms and means of learning require the teacher to improve both the content and the form of teaching. In addition, it involves mastering modern teaching methods and tools that facilitate the implementation of the teaching load. The conclusions also emphasise that medical teachers use various blended learning methods adapted to the needs of future surgeons. In particular, an effective combination of interactive teaching methods and e-platforms contributes to acquiring practical knowledge, developing communication competencies, improving clinical thinking and integrating theoretical knowledge with practice. This provides opportunities to improve surgeons' educational process and professional development through available educational resources, including online platforms and web resources.