In order to enrich the educational process with practical content, enhance students’ historical thinking, and effectively utilize museum space as an educational environment, a lecture on the course History of Kazakhstan was conducted in the format of a field lecture at the Central State  Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The field lecture format enabled students to study historical material outside the traditional classroom setting, engaging directly with authentic archaeological, ethnographic, and paleontological sources. This approach facilitates the integration of theoretical knowledge with visual museum exhibitions and promotes a holistic and systematic understanding of historical processes.

The lecture began in the Hall of Paleontology and Archaeology, which consists of two major exhibition complexes—paleontological and archaeological. The exhibition reflects the long-term development of humanity shaped by natural and anthropogenic factors. Its conceptual framework is based on demonstrating causal relationships and interdependence between the natural environment and human society.

The paleontological section presents rich osteological materials, petrified trees, and imprints of insects, fish, and plants preserved in shale formations. A significant portion of the exhibits dates back millions of years. The paleontological collections are arranged chronologically according to geological periods, clearly illustrating the evolutionary development of the Earth.

The archaeological exhibition complex covers the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, the Hunnic-Sarmatian period, the Middle Ages, and historical stages up to the 15th century. It provides comprehensive insight into the economic activities, social structure, religious beliefs, and artistic culture of the peoples who inhabited the territory of Kazakhstan since ancient times. The archaeological materials are displayed on two levels of the hall, organized thematically and chronologically.

Among the exhibits are unique artifacts discovered during archaeological expeditions conducted across Kazakhstan. Notable items include the scientific reconstruction of the “Golden Man” from the Issyk burial mound, unique gold artifacts from the Kargaly and Zhalauly hoards, reconstructions of ancient burial sites, as well as models and dioramas of medieval architectural monuments. Weapons, horse harnesses, bronze vessels, and ritual objects represent vivid examples of early nomadic culture.

Monuments of the Kangju culture of Southern Kazakhstan are represented by artifacts discovered during excavations of settlements and burial mounds along the Arys River (4th century BCE – 4th century CE). The cultural heritage of medieval Turkic nomads is illustrated through stone sculptures, warrior attributes, and elements of military equipment.

During the lecture, particular attention was paid to the formation and development of urban culture in Kazakhstan, as well as to the consequences of the Mongol invasion. Events of the 13th century, including the heroic defense of the city of Otrar, are vividly depicted in the diorama “The Heroic Defense of Otrar.”

The next stage of the lecture took place in the Hall of Historical Ethnography, whose exhibition covers the history of Kazakhstan from the 15th century to the early 20th century. It is dedicated to the traditional culture of the Kazakh people, including their economic system, daily life, and spiritual worldview. The exhibition is based on a scientific concept and reflects the socio-cultural characteristics of Kazakh society.

The exhibition complexes present key historical periods such as the formation of the Kazakh Khanate, the development of statehood, resistance to Dzungar aggression, and the incorporation of Kazakh lands into the Russian Empire. The hall features authentic photographs, rare books, maps, household items, examples of folk decorative and applied arts, national costumes, and a yurt as a symbol of Kazakh culture.

The field lecture concluded in the Third Historical Hall, where the multi-ethnic culture of Kazakhstan is presented through household objects, handicrafts, and photographic documents. The exhibition introduces the cultural heritage of 16 ethnic groups. In addition, the hall contains exhibitions dedicated to the heroism of Kazakhstanis during the Great Patriotic War. The “Rear – Front” complex highlights Kazakhstan’s contribution to the economy, science, and culture during wartime, as well as the dedication of rear workers.

In conclusion, the field lecture held at the Central Museum contributed significantly to the formation of students’ historical consciousness, deepened their understanding of the past, and facilitated the integration of theoretical knowledge with authentic historical sources. This format represents an effective model for utilizing museums as dynamic educational and research spaces.