FOREIGN LANGUAGE EDUCATION AS A TOOL FOR SOFT SKILLS DEVELOPMENT IN ENGINEERING STUDENTS

Abstract

DOI: https://doi.org/10.26565/2074-8922-2026-86-20

Purpose. The purpose of the article is to conduct a theoretical and empirical study of the role of foreign language education in the development of soft skills in engineering students, as well as to identify effective methods and approaches for integrating soft skills into the teaching process of foreign language courses.

Methods. Theoretical methods (analysis of scientific literature, generalization, systematization, and comparative analysis) and empirical methods (questionnaires and observation) were used for the study. The questionnaire was administered to third-year students at V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University studying the discipline “Foreign Language for Professional and Business Communication.”

Results. The study found that foreign languages contribute to the active development of communication skills, critical thinking, presentation skills, teamwork, and intercultural competence. Interactive teaching methods—such as project work, debates, discussions, case studies, and role-playing games—significantly enhance the effectiveness of soft skills development. In particular, students demonstrate greater confidence in public speaking in English and adapt more quickly to new professional situations. Modern technologies, such as online collaboration platforms, virtual laboratories, simulation platforms with artificial intelligence elements, and multimedia resources, provide dynamic, practice-oriented learning and stimulate the development of interpersonal, cognitive, and professional competencies. The use of such tools allows for the simulation of real professional scenarios, the implementation of remote team projects, and the practical training of decision-making skills in a safe learning environment.

Conclusions. The integration of foreign language education with active and technological teaching methods creates favorable conditions for the comprehensive development of soft skills in future engineers, increases their competitiveness in the international labor market, and prepares them for effective intercultural communication and professional mobility. Further research should focus on developing comprehensive models for integrating language training and soft skills development across various technical specialties, as well as on examining the long-term impact of interactive and technological teaching methods.