DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AS A TOOL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF COMMUNICATION SKILLS IN HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS

Abstract

In the contemporary world, digitalization increasingly permeates all spheres of human activity. Proficiency in digital technologies and their effective application in professional contexts has become an essential requirement across most fields. This trend further intensifies globalization processes, which continue to expand on a global scale. These transformations create a societal demand for highly qualified specialists capable of rapidly adapting to new challenges and operating effectively in conditions of widespread digitalization. Developing digital competencies among higher education students in Ukraine represents a key priority for the educational system, while the ability to navigate vast information flows and exhibit cognitive flexibility emerges as a critical attribute of the modern individual. The aim of this study is to substantiate the role of digital technologies as an effective tool for fostering and enhancing communicative competence among higher education students. The research explores the potential of such technologies to advance interpersonal, intercultural, and professional communication practices within the context of globalization and digitalization. The study employs a comparative analysis of contemporary scholarly publications, a descriptive-analytical approach, and the synthesis of practical experience with digital platforms, including Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Padlet, Grammarly, and Quizlet. A systemic framework is applied to examine the integration of traditional and digital interaction methods in higher education. From the perspective of scientific novelty, the research highlights the potential of digital tools not only to develop linguistic skills but also to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and intercultural communication abilities. The findings demonstrate that communicative competence in higher education students acquires new dimensions amid societal digital transformation, encompassing cognitive flexibility, rapid adaptability to innovations, and the ability to operate effectively in online environments. The study underscores the importance of balancing digital and traditional interaction modalities to preserve emotional intelligence and face-to-face communication skills.