THE FORMATION OF BIOGEOGRAPHICAL KNOWLEDGE BY MEANS OF NUMISMATIC GEOGRAPHY: EDUCATIONAL AND PEDAGOGIC POTENTIAL OF COINS OF THE WORLD

Abstract

The article considers numismatic geography as an innovative direction in geographical science, which combines the study of the territorial specificity of coin production with the analysis of natural objects depicted on coins. The importance of ecological culture as a key component of sustainable development of society is substantiated and the potential of coins with images of flora and fauna for the formation of environmental awareness of schoolchildren and university students is emphasized. The purpose of the article is to identify the educational and pedagogic potential of the coins of the world for the formation of biogeographical knowledge, and to develop the approaches as for the application of numismatic geography in the educational process. Particular attention is paid to the review of coins of the countries of Eurasia, North and South America, Australia, Oceania and Africa, which present species of plants and animals that are symbols of the natural wealth of the regions and indicators of the ecological state of the environment. Based on their own research, the authors analyze the aesthetic, cognitive and educational aspects of the use of numismatic material in the educational process. It is emphasized that thematic coin collections can serve as an effective didactic tool for integrating geographical, biological and environmental knowledge, stimulating interest in preserving biodiversity and fostering a responsible attitude towards natural resources. The methodology for the study of some coins and their thematic series may include an identification of the presented objects or representatives of the organic world, a comprehensive description of the depicted natural landscapes and an explanation of the conditions of their formation, as well as a compilation of numismatic and geographical maps. The tables and illustrative materials presented by the authors allow organizing a comparative geographical analysis, forming ecological ideas based on visual perception, and developing students' critical thinking. It is noted that the introduction of numismatic geography into educational practice is appropriate, since it contributes to the formation of analytical thinking, general cultural awareness, environmental culture, ecological culture and an environmentally oriented worldview of students.