Application of environmental training cases in a mixed learning format

The article discusses the possibilities of using the case method in a mixed biology teaching format. Different approaches to the definition of the concepts of «blended learning» and «case method» are considered. The authors present a matrix of cases in the content of the Arctic Explorer course, develop criteria for evaluating solutions to different types of cases, provide detailed characteristics of long-term and short-term cases, describe their structure, and make methodological recommendations for the implementation of the roadmap of the case. The roadmap of the problem case reveals the stages of its solution, the pedagogical task and the expected result. Special attention is paid to the features of the problematic, illustrative and evaluative types of cases, their structure, differences and similarities are presented. The article discusses the results of students solving long–term and short-term cases while studying the Arctic Explorer course, implemented in a mixed learning format in 2020/2021–2022/2023 academic years. The authors present the research data obtained with the traditional learning format, electronic learning format and mixed learning format. The results of the study revealed the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the educational process. The studied groups of students showed high adaptability to the new educational environment formed as a result of the use of distance learning during the Covid-19 pandemic.