MIMESIS AS A MEANS FOR OVERCOMING EDUCATIONAL LOSSES

Abstract

The article explores the phenomenon of mimesis as one of the key mechanisms of learning which plays a fundamental role in the processes of cognition, personality development and acquisition of cultural values. In the context of the need to overcome educational losses addressing this phenomenon can play a positive and significant role as a natural principle of acquiring knowledge. It analyzes historical concepts of mimesis starting with the ancient philosophy of Plato and Aristotle, in which imitation was viewed as a basic principle of art, education, and socialization. The article also highlights approaches to mimesis in later pedagogical thought allowing us to trace the significance of this phenomenon in the context of the development of educational systems. In particular, attention is drawn to the fact that the modern education system has largely lost the mechanism of imitation as a natural way of learning, replacing it with analytical, abstract, and theoretical approaches. According to the authors, this has led to certain negative consequences including overloaded curricula, decreased student motivation, and the detachment of education from real life. The article suggests that the return of mimesis as an important pedagogical method may contribute to optimizing the educational process and improving its effectiveness in overcoming educational losses. The practical aspects of applying mimesis in modern education are also discussed. Proposed methods for its implementation include imitating the actions of teachers, learning through observation, group work, using mentorship, as well as incorporating digital technologies and best practices to recreate models of activity. It is noted that the effectiveness of this approach largely depends on the quality of the models offered to students for imitation. Thus, the article argues the necessity of revisiting the role of mimesis in modern pedagogy and emphasizes its potential in improving the quality of education. Using imitation as a natural learning mechanism will make the educational process more harmonious, effective, aligned with the needs of real life, and capable of helping to overcome educational losses.