Realization of the students’ creative potential as a condition of forming competitive specialists

Abstract

Problem. Development of creative abilities is one of the major problems of future engineers’ training as they provide for innovative activity, solving nonstandard professional situations, competitiveness. They are widely considered as a component of the future specialists’ professional competence. At present higher educational institutions almost lack systematized technologies to develop students’ creativity. The problem is also insufficiently studied for teaching foreign languages at technical universities. Goal. The article aims at analyzing and systematizing methods of realization of the technical university students’ creative potential in the course of leaning foreign languages and extracurricular activities in foreign languages. Methodology. The specific principles of training creative engineers are singled out. The major forms and methods of developing the creative activity of specialists of any profile are identified, among them being students’ scientific and research work, contests, conferences, project method, case-studies, trainings in creativity, etc. The leading ways of training creative engineers that provide for developing students’ engineering thinking are outlined. They include students’ technical societies, simulation games, workshops in rationalization activity, etc. Results. The methods to be used during teaching foreign languages are described in detail. Besides traditional brainstorming, synectics, project work, etc. they include designing computer presentations and video clips, round-table discussions, method of absurd, method of free associations, translation of original verses, contests of essays, mind-mapping based on fiction, etc. Originality. Methods that can be used for developing students’ creativity and engineering thinking while teaching foreign languages are analyzed and systematized. Practical value. The technology described can be used at technical universities to enhance students’ creative abilities and, hence, their professional competence and competitiveness.