THE METHOD OF MODELING AS AN INTEGRATIVE BASIS OF THE MATHEMATICAL TRAINING OF FUTURE TEACHERS OF NATURAL SCIENCES

The article is devoted to the justification of the method of mathematical modeling as the basis of the course «Mathematical Methods of Natural Sciences», which is recommended for inclusion in the list of free choice disciplines within the educational program «Secondary Education (Natural Sciences)» of the first (bachelor's) level of higher education. The role of the course in the formation of critical thinking, the development of skills in solving applied problems, analyzing scientific data and applying information technologies is considered. The article describes in detail the algorithm for building mathematical models – from the formulation of the problem to its analysis using analytical or numerical methods. Special attention is paid to the use of modern software, in particular the MathCad package, which simplifies the modelling process thanks to readymade algorithms and allows students to focus on the physical analysis of processes. Examples of problems are given that demonstrate the effectiveness of using mathematical packages in modeling natural phenomena. It has been shown that modeling contributes to the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical skills, forms key competencies (mathematical, information and digital), and improves the quality of training of future teachers for teaching natural sciences.