Kirsanova O. V., Pototska O. I., Zvyagina H. O.

CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES FOR IMPLEMENTING DISTANCE LEARNING IN HIGHER MEDICAL EDUCATION IN UKRAINE UNDER CONDITIONS OF GLOBAL TRANSFORMATION

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About the author:

Kirsanova O. V., Pototska O. I., Zvyagina H. O.

Heading:

MEDICAL EDUCATION

Type of article:

Scientific article

Annotation:

This article examines the current state and prospects for the implementation of distance learning in higher medical education in Ukraine amid global transformations. It emphasizes that the digitalization of the educational environment, the COVID-19 pandemic, and military actions have become key factors transforming traditional models of training future doctors and pharmacists. Particular attention is given to the experience of Zaporizhzhia State Medical and Pharmaceutical University (ZSMPhU), where since 2005 the Center for Distance Education, Telemedicine, and Quality of Education has operated as a leading hub for innovation. The advantages of distance learning are analyzed, including flexibility of the educational process, individualization of learning pace, accessibility for students, including international ones, integration of modern digital tools, and the use of simulation technologies. Simultaneously, key challenges are identified: technical limitations, insufficient network bandwidth in remote areas, academic integrity and student identification issues, decreased motivation, and difficulties in developing practical skills. It is established that the pandemic confirmed the effectiveness of distance learning as a crisis management tool, whereas the war transformed it into a strategic element ensuring the continuity of the educational process and the resilience of the education system. The ZSMPhU experience demonstrated the potential of combining educational, scientific, and clinical components through digital technologies and international cooperation. The study concludes that hybrid learning models combining distance and in-person formats are a promising direction, ensuring a balance between theoretical preparation and practical skills. This will contribute to enhancing the quality, accessibility, and competitiveness of Ukrainian medical education in the global educational space.

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Bibliography:

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Publication of the article:

«Bulletin of problems biology and medicine», 2025 Issue 3,178, 330-336 pages, index UDC 378.018.43:61].091.2(477)

DOI:

10.29254/2077-4214-2025-3-178-330-336