FEATURES OF DEVELOPING STUDENTS’ SOFT SKILLS THROUGH STEM PROJECTS IN THE FIELD OF TOURISM

Abstract

This article examines the specific features of developing students’ soft skills through STEM projects designed in the field of tourism. In the modern education system, along with subject-specific knowledge, the formation of soft skills such as communication, critical thinking, creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving has become one of the priority areas. The purpose of the study is to identify the potential of tourism-based STEM projects to influence the development of students’ soft skills and to substantiate their developmental capacity. During the research, a theoretical analysis of scientific literature was conducted, which clarified the characteristics of STEM education and Project-Based Learning (PjBL). In addition, tourism-oriented STEM projects—such as developing models of historical sites, designing a robot guide, and creating digital tourist routes—were analyzed to determine their interdisciplinary nature and practical orientation. At the practical stage, methods including model construction, 3D modeling, design, programming, and preparation for competitions were applied. The research findings demonstrated that STEM projects based on tourism content positively influence students’ creative activity, teamwork skills, communication abilities, and self-presentation competencies. Furthermore, the process of project defense and participation in competitions increased students’ responsibility and enabled them to achieve high performance outcomes.