Guided tours for students of natural sciences at a pedagogical university

An important component of the process of studying biological disciplines is field practice, in which excursions to nature play a key role. To improve the quality of knowledge in the practice of pedagogical universities, additional forms of practice-oriented learning are used and students' knowledge of nature, ecosystems and living organisms is expanded. The purpose of this study is to study the potential of excursion work in the pedagogical process of the university, and to solve educational and research tasks in field training. The main objectives of the research are to substantiate the methodological foundations of organizing excursions to natural sites and improving knowledge, skills and abilities through biological excursions. The authors have developed a methodological basis for the implementation of the excursion program "Weekend routes" and the selection of natural objects for field practice in the vicinity of the city. Based on the results of the two-year excursion work, 62 second- and third-year students of the Biology educational program were surveyed. When analyzing five key questions to assess the quality of knowledge, gain competencies, and identify the opportunities and potential of excursions, students noted the importance of excursions for integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills and noted educational excursions as an important element of the educational process.