CHALLENGES AND INNOVATIONS IN TEACHING GENERAL AND INORGANIC CHEMISTRY UNDER COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND WAR CONDITIONS (2021–2025) AT THE DEPARTMENT OF TOXICOLOGICAL AND INORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Abstract

This article analyzes the outcomes of teaching the course “General and Inorganic Chemistry” to students of the Faculty of Pharmacy from 2021 to 2025 at the Department of Toxicological and Inorganic Chemistry. Particular attention is given to the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and martial law in Ukraine. The authors examined trends in student performance, identified challenges in mastering the material, and determined the key factors affecting the quality of the educational process. The study shows that the transition to distance learning due to the pandemic significantly impacted students’ practical training, particularly by reducing their ability to effectively acquire essential laboratory skills, which are critical in studying chemistry. Additionally, martial law and associated stress factors led to decreased student motivation, psychological well-being, and readiness to learn. Despite these challenges, the department’s faculty adapted the educational process and successfully integrated modern innovative technologies such as virtual laboratories, interactive online tools, flipped classroom methods, and project-based learning. The authors also note that an additional complication was the need for instructors to adapt to new working conditions, which required extra effort, continuous professional development, and digital competence. The strategies implemented by the faculty helped to partially mitigate the decline in teaching quality, maintain student engagement, and even improve short-term academic outcomes. The authors emphasize the need for ongoing refinement of these methods, a balanced integration of traditional and digital learning formats, individualized student support, and targeted assistance for students with weaker academic backgrounds. The article provides practical recommendations for enhancing educational practices in times of prolonged crisis.