Foreign experience in the problem of developing information and digital competence of future IT specialists through project-based learning methods

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to analyze foreign educational practices in the USA, Canada, Europe, and Asia, where projectbased learning methods are used to train IT specialists, as well as to identify the best educational models and approaches that can be adapted to the national educational system to increase the competitiveness of graduates. Research methods and methodology are based on comparative analysis, which allows to research and compare the main educational models in leading countries, as well as the analysis of scientific articles and publications that highlight the features and results of the application of project methods in the training of IT specialists. Qualitative analysis approaches were used, including consideration of such aspects as the integration of students into real projects, cooperation with companies to create partnership programs, the development of interdisciplinary competencies and the use of modern digital tools for project management (GitHub, Jira, Slack, etc.). The results of the study show that the foreign experience of forming information and digital competence among IT students confirms the effectiveness of project-based learning. In particular, the implementation of practice-oriented projects that meet real business needs helps students apply theoretical knowledge in practice, develop critical thinking and problemsolving abilities. Integration with industry through internships and cooperation with IT companies allows students to gain direct experience in a professional environment, develop team skills and get to know the corporate culture. Interdisciplinary approaches, popular in European and Canadian universities, contribute to the development of flexibility and the ability to work in a team with representatives of other specialties, which is important in modern conditions. The findings of the study emphasize that project-based learning is an effective means of forming information and digital competence, as it combines the development of technical skills with "soft" competences such as communication, leadership and critical thinking. An important step is the integration of foreign experience into national educational programs, in particular through the implementation of partnership programs, the use of digital project management tools and gamification elements.

Key words: information and digital competence; project-based learning; IT education; foreign experience; interdisciplinary skills.