Webquests as an Innovative Technology for Professionally-Oriented Foreign Language Teaching

The article methodically explores the potential for using webquest technology as an innovative means for professionally-oriented foreign language teaching in higher education institutions in the context of the digital transformation of education. The article substantiates the relevance of introducing webquest technology into the professional training of future specialists, given the actual need to develop foreign-language communicative competence, digital literacy, critical thinking and skills for independent learning and cognitive activity. Contemporary approaches to interpreting the concept of a webquest are analysed, and its didactic potential, structural components, implementation stages and specific features of its application into foreign language learning within the context of distance and blended approaches to learning are identified.

The specific features of implementing webquests into a digital academic environment based on the Moodle Learning Management System are identified, showcasing the system functional capabilities to facilitate interactive engagement between participants in the educational process, the use of multimedia resources, e-assessment of learning results, and the integration of internal and external digital services. The article highlights the prospects for using generative artificial intelligence, cloud services, and open online resources to widen the possibilities of professionally-oriented foreign language learning.

The article represents an original script for a career-oriented webquest entitled ‘Professional Communication in Computer Science’, in which a set of specific assignments are designed to utilise authentic English-language materials, professional terminology, role-play exercises, interactive tests and digital platforms, thereby fostering the development of practical skills in professional communication in a foreign language.

The article demonstrates that the use of webquests increases learners’ motivation to study, stimulates their cognitive activity, and contributes to the development of research skills, information literacy, the analysis and critical evaluation of information, likewise the effective use of a foreign language in typical situations encountered in future professional practice. The presented research certifies that the integration of webquest technology with modern digital platforms and artificial intelligence tools creates favourable conditions for implementing a competence-based approach, personalising the process of learning to improve the quality of professionally-oriented foreign language training for future specialists.