DEVELOPING STUDENTS’ RESEARCH AND COGNITIVE COMPETENCIES THROUGH THE USE OF LOCAL STUDY MATERIALS IN GEOGRAPHY LESSONS: THE CASE OF QIYN-KERISH

Abstract

The use of local study materials in geography lessons plays an important role in developing students’ research and cognitive competencies. In particular, studying natural features through concrete examples helps students develop scientific thinking and gain a systematic understanding of natural phenomena. The Qiyn-Kerish landform is one of Kazakhstan’s unique geomorphological monuments, a clear example of natural erosion processes, and a unique educational site for studying the region’s geological history. During geography lessons, students explore this site using maps, soil and rock layer structures, geological time scales, field observation methods, and issues of natural heritage protection. Local study materials not only increase students’ interest in their native land but also enhance their research skills, observation, comparison, analysis, and hypothesis formulation abilities. This article analyzes the pedagogical foundations, methodological features, and impact on students’ cognitive engagement of incorporating local study elements into geography lessons, using the Qiyn-Kerish example.