DEVELOPING RESEARCH COMPETENCE IN PRE-SERVICE FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHERS THROUGH HEURISTIC APPROACHES AND DIGITAL RESOURCES

Abstract

The article examines the problem of developing research competence in pre-service foreign language teachers within the context of educational digitalization. Current requirements for teacher education emphasize not only the acquisition of subject-specific knowledge but also the cultivation of research skills, critical thinking, independence, and creativity. Particular attention is devoted to the heuristic approach, which frames the learning process as a search for solutions, the discovery of new knowledge, and the independent performance of research tasks. This approach encourages the development of an investigative mindset and readiness for continuous professional growth.

The use of digital resources adds a practice-oriented dimension to the heuristic approach. The digital environment provides access to diverse information sources, interactive tools for data analysis and visualization, and opportunities for collaborative project and research activities. It is demonstrated that the combination of heuristic strategies and digital resources fosters the development of essential abilities such as defining research objectives, critically analyzing information, systematizing knowledge, and formulating arguments and conclusions.

Moreover, the application of digital tools enhances opportunities for reflection, self-assessment, and the presentation of research outcomes in multiple formats. Thus, the integration of the heuristic approach with digital resources serves as a significant and effective condition for the development of research competence, which is particularly relevant in preparing future foreign language teachers for professional activity in innovative educational environments.