Article

Received 11.08.2025

Revised 24.11.2025

Accepted 23.12.2025

Published 02.01.2026

Retrieved from Vol. 28, No. 2, 2025

Pages 14 -23

Orlova, O., Yuldasheva, L., & Tikhonenko, S. (2025). Scientific literary research of high school and university students: Methodology of competition defences . Pedagogical Sciences, 28(2), 14-23. https://doi.org/10.33989/2524-2474.2025.2.24

Scientific literary research of high school and university students: Methodology of competition defences

Olha Orlova Liudmyla Yuldasheva Svitlana Tikhonenko

The relevance of the study is driven by the need to develop research and interpretative competencies among high school and university students in response to modern educational challenges. The aim of this article was a comprehensive analysis of the methodology for preparing scientific literary studies within the framework of defence competitions, focusing on fostering critical thinking and the ability to independently interpret literary texts. Methods of analysis, synthesis, comparison, interpretation, and observation were applied. The empirical component of the study was based on long-term (3 years) observation of regional competitions in Ukraine, in which the authors participated as jury members. Particular emphasis was placed on the communicative aspect of research activity – how students present their findings, interact with the audience, and answer questions. The article also examined the differences between student and school-level research, emphasising the depth of conceptualisation and interdisciplinary vision required at the university level. The results of the analysis of the topics and problems most frequently encountered in the scientific works of students of secondary and higher educational institutions revealed certain patterns in terms of repetition in regions (Cherkasy, Kirovohrad, and Poltava regions) and years of writing (2023-2025). Patterns were identified in the selection of topics and issues for scientific research in Ukrainian and foreign literature. The practical value of the article lies in providing recommendations for improving the quality of scientific works, forming a culture of academic integrity, preparing for public speaking, and developing scientific communication skills. The study contributes to the formation of a sustainable model of mentoring literary research in modern educational conditions 

interpretation competence; academic integrity; cognitive poetics; comparative studies; interdisciplinary approach; scientific communication
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https://doi.org/10.33989/2524-2474.2025.2.24