SOCIO-PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF STUDENTS’ ADAPTATION TO DISTANCE LEARNING IN HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

The article examines the socio-psychological aspects of students’ adaptation to distance learning in higher education institutions (HEIs). The relevance of the issue driven by global changes in the educational process resulting from the epidemiological situation and martial law in Ukraine. The transition to distance learning has created new challenges for students, especially first-year students, who simultaneously face difficulties in academic, social, and personal adaptation. The study found that students’ adaptation to the distance-learning format determined by a combination of psychological, social, and organizational factors. The key problems complicating this process include increased stress levels, cognitive and emotional overload, insufficiently developed self-organization and independent learning skills, limited social interaction, and decreased motivation. The shift in the learning environment also brings communication challenges with teachers and peers, affecting the quality of the educational process and students’ psychological well-being. The impact of individual personality traits on the success of adaptation was analyzed, particularly emotional resilience, motivation for learning, cognitive skills, and self-regulation ability. It was determined that key factors supporting the adaptation process include effective communication with teachers, student engagement in interactive educational formats, and social support from both peers and the academic community. The article also explores possible strategies for optimizing students’ adaptation to distance learning. Among the effective approaches identified are the use of communicative methodologies in the educational process, the creation of an interactive learning environment with elements of game-based and project-based technologies, the implementation of digital educational resources to enhance student engagement, and the development of self-organization and critical thinking skills. Special attention given to the role of teachers in facilitating students’ adaptation, which involves not only methodological support but also ensuring a favorable psychological climate within the learning group. Future research prospects include analyzing the effectiveness of specific pedagogical strategies aimed at supporting student adaptation, developing integrated blended learning methodologies, and studying the impact of long-term distance learning on students’ personal and professional development.