FORMATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF SOFT SKILLS OF PARTICIPANTS OF THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS IN HIGH SCHOOL

Abstract

The article substantiates that the modern system of higher education, under conditions of constant trans- formations caused by digitalization, globalization, and changes in labor market demands, requires not only the for- mation of professional competencies (hard skills) but also the development of soft skills. Soft skills are interpreted as universal abilities that include communication, emotional intelligence, critical and creative thinking, teamwork, and the ability to make decisions under uncertainty. Their importance is particularly emphasized in the educational environ- ment, as they enhance graduates’ competitiveness, foster autonomy, and contribute to building a culture of responsible teamwork and academic integrity. The analysis of contemporary research shows that leading scholars define a wide range of soft skills, among which are communication abilities, critical and creative thinking, communication ethics, leadership, flexibility, multiculturalism, time management, and emotional intelligence. They constitute an integral sys- tem of socially oriented competencies that promote professional and personal growth. For academic staff, the im- provement of soft skills is an important factor in pedagogical mastery, effective communication, and the organization of an interactive educational environment. The article emphasizes the need to develop clear policies and procedures for the formation and development of soft skills in higher education institutions. The expediency of integrating them not only into the content of specific educational components but also into all areas of students’ activities—academic, re- search, communicative, project-based, volunteer, international mobility, and student self-government—is substantiated.It is proven that the most effective methods and technologies for developing soft skills are project-based, interactive, and situational learning, which contribute to the development of critical and creative thinking, teamwork, leadership and communication abilities, flexibility, and stress resistance. It is concluded that the formation and improvement of soft skills are essential conditions for training competitive professionals and improving the quality of higher education.This requires a systematic approach to the organization of the educational process, the creation of an appropriate insti- tutional policy, and the implementation of innovative teaching methods.