DIGITAL EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT AS A RESOURCE FOR DEVELOPING STUDENTS’ SOFT SKILLS

Abstract

Currently, the skills prioritized by employers are not exclusively related to specialized professional competencies. Universities must respond to these trends and adapt their educational process. The article examines the development of soft skills in students in a digital education environment. It presents the results of a study examining the importance of soft skills and the potential for their development in educational institutions using digital tools and online resources. The study highlights the need for a shift in the approach to professional soft skills education due to the lack of adequate training in this area, despite recognition of their critical role. The article presents proposals for implementing a program to develop soft skills (or social and communication skills) in students. Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that institutions of higher education should include the development of soft skills in the educational process and provide opportunities for their development in future professional activities. The specialist training model, based primarily on “hard” skills, is insufficient to meet the needs of modern employers. The authors consider it necessary to launch special development projects in this area in the form of workshops and seminars.