Impact of Virtual Laboratories on the Development of Research Competence in Students of Technical Specialties

The purpose of this study is to examine the peculiarities of the impact of virtual laboratories on the development of research competence in higher education students. The study employed a research experiment, testing, and expert assessment methods. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test, Pearson's coefficient, and correlation analysis. The reliability of the method was verified using Cronbach's alpha. In the control group (CG), a higher average score was observed for the application of scientific methods, and the ability to conduct experiments and process results, compared to the experimental group (EG). On average, in the CG, the application of scientific methods was assessed at 17 points, while in the EG – at 9 points. The CG also showed a higher assessment of teamwork compared to the EG. However, the average scores for this indicator were the same in both groups and amounted to 11. The results of the study show that the use of virtual laboratories significantly increases research competence. This is due to the creation of a favorable educational environment and the provision of modern working tools for students.