THE USE OF MOLECULAR MODEL TECHNOLOGIES IN TEACHING THE TOPIC OF AMINO ACIDS AND PROTEINS

The effective teaching of amino acids and proteins is fundamental to secondary and higher-level chemistry and biology education, as these biomolecules constitute the structural and functional basis of living systems. However, the abstract nature of molecular structure, stereochemistry, peptide bond formation, and protein folding often presents conceptual challenges for students. This article explores the pedagogical potential of molecular model technologies in teaching amino acids and proteins. It analyzes traditional physical molecular models, digital three-dimensional modeling software, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools, and interactive simulation platforms as innovative instructional technologies. The study discusses their theoretical foundations within constructivist, inquiry-based, and STEAM-oriented frameworks. The article proposes a methodological model for integrating molecular modeling technologies into classroom practice and evaluates their impact on conceptual understanding, spatial thinking, and scientific literacy. The findings demonstrate that molecular model technologies significantly enhance students’ visualization skills, analytical reasoning, motivation, and interdisciplinary connections between chemistry and biology.